The Stars Who Have Hosted “SNL ”the Most Times

**Celebrities Shine on ‘Saturday Night Live’ with Record Hosting Appearances**

The iconic television show ‘Saturday Night Live’ (SNL) has been a platform for many celebrities to demonstrate their comedic talents, allowing them to engage with audiences in a unique way. Among the numerous stars who have taken the stage, a select few have not only hosted the programme multiple times but have far surpassed the threshold of the renowned “Five-Timers Club”.

This elusive group, known for hosting SNL at least five times, includes illustrious names such as Martin Short, Bill Murray, and Ben Affleck, who are each awarded a velvet smoking jacket to commemorate their status. However, a smaller number have continued their hosting streak beyond this initial milestone, solidifying their place in television history.

Leading the pack is Alec Baldwin, who has hosted SNL an astonishing 17 times. His tenure on the show has not only showcased his versatility as a performer but has also included memorable portrayals, most notably of former President Donald Trump. Baldwin’s portrayal even earned him an Emmy Award in 2017, further adding to his accolades associated with the show.

In close pursuit is the affable Steve Martin, who has graced the SNL stage 16 times since his debut. Known for his impressive body of work, including roles in classic films such as ‘The Pink Panther’, Martin demonstrated his comedic prowess by hosting the show three times in a single season during the early days of SNL. His most recent hosting appearance was in December 2022.

John Goodman, famed for his role on ‘The Conners’, follows with 13 hosting stints. Although he has had significant success as a comedian and actor, Goodman humourously recounted his disastrous audition for SNL in 1980, expressing disbelief that he ever made it onto the show given how poorly he felt he performed.

Another Hollywood A-lister, Tom Hanks, has hosted SNL 10 times, becoming synonymous with the programme. He is celebrated for coining the term “Five-Timers Club”, having been inducted into the group during his fifth hosting gig back in 1990. Hanks’ blend of charm and comedic timing has made him a recurring favourite among both the cast and audience.

Buck Henry also hosted the show on 10 occasions, making him one of the first to reach the hosting milestone. His final appearance came in 1980, and he was remembered for his substantial influence on the programme until his passing in 2020.

Scarlett Johansson is another notable name on the roster, having hosted seven times. She not only established her comedic chops on SNL but also found romance on the show, eventually marrying Colin Jost, whom she met during her first hosting stint in 2006. Their relationship blossomed primarily outside the spotlight, marking a significant connection formed on the SNL stage.

Further contributing to the list is John Mulaney, a former SNL writer turned celebrated comedian. Mulaney has hosted the show six times, showcasing his sharp wit and humorous storytelling—skills he continues to display in his acclaimed comedy specials.

Notably, Chevy Chase has made eight appearances as host despite being a cast member for a single season. Known for pioneering the role of Weekend Update anchor, his influence on the show endures, evident from his continued involvement through various hosting episodes, the last of which occurred in 1997.

Christopher Walken, a beloved SNL veteran, has hosted the show seven times and is well-remembered for his standout performances in iconic sketches such as “More Cowbell” and “Colonel Angus.” His unique style and ability to make each appearance fresh have rendered him a fan favourite.

Other significant contributors to SNL include Tina Fey, who rose to prominence through her roles as a writer and cast member, and has since hosted the show six times. Danny DeVito, Drew Barrymore, and Melissa McCarthy are also on the roster of frequent hosts, each having brought their unique flair to the show with multiple stints.

Will Ferrell, first appearing on SNL in the 90s as a cast member, has hosted six times since his transition, and he is set to return for another episode, 20 years after his debut. McCarthy, who is part of the Five-Timers Club thanks to her humorous impressions, particularly of Sean Spicer, has also captivated audiences with her comedic range.

As the show continues to thrive 48 years after its inception, the impressive tally of hosts illustrates the enduring appeal of ‘Saturday Night Live’. With each new generation of talent, the show promises to remain a staple of late-night television and a launching pad for illustrious comedic careers.