Legions of comedic talent have paraded through NBC’s Studio 8H, whether as cast members, writers or hosts of “Saturday Night Live.”

As the sketch show marks its 50th anniversary with a bevy of celebrations, its cast members and alumni look back on their favorite sketches and the enduring legacy of “Saturday Night Live.”

Armisen’s Favorite: ‘The Wizard of Oz’

Fred Armisen, cast member 2002-2013, one-time host, recalls a sketch written by John Mulaney featuring new footage of a cut character from “The Wizard of Oz” – a weather vane. Armisen, who played Weathervane alongside Anne Hathaway’s Dorothy, expressed his love for the sketch.

Current Cast Member’s Excitement

Chloe Fineman, cast member 2019-present, enthusiastically stated that “Everything is amazing,” and hinted at a possible reprise of “The Californians” for the anniversary special. She added, “All of it are sort of ‘pinch me’ moments and I feel like it’ll be even bigger than the 40th.”

Classic Favorites

Will Forte, cast member 2002-2010, one-time host, named several favorites including “More Cowbell,” “Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer,” and Adam Sandler’s “The Chanukah Song.” Seth Meyers, cast member 2001-2014, former head writer, one-time host, also praised “More Cowbell” as a universal favorite.

Enduring Appeal of ‘SNL’

Meyers compared “Saturday Night Live” to sports, emphasizing its live nature and unpredictability. He noted, “It’s so beautifully uneven. I’ve always said the worst show has something great and the best show has something terrible.”

Weird and Wonderful Sketches

Bobby Moynihan, cast member 2008-2017, highlighted “Haunted Elevator” with Tom Hanks as David S. Pumpkins, “Calculator Christmas Gift,” and “Tennis Talk with Time-Traveling Scott Joplin” as some of his favorite “amazing, weird sketches.”

Writers’ Picks

John Mulaney, writer 2008-2013, six-time host, favored “Toilet Death Ejector” and “Monkey Trial,” both of which he wrote during his hosting stints.

Original Cast Member’s Perspective

Laraine Newman, cast member 1975-1980, praised “Plato’s Cave” from the early years and “The Swan,” a parody of a 2000s reality show. She credited Lorne Michaels for keeping the show relevant by consistently bringing in new talent with fresh perspectives.

Recurring Favorites and Show’s Endurance

Jason Sudeikis highlighted “What’s Up With That?” as a favorite recurring sketch, while Kenan Thompson emphasized the show’s ability to navigate sensitive topics with a solid sensibility. Bowen Yang attributed the show’s endurance to its variety show format, offering different perspectives and comedic styles.

As “Saturday Night Live” celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to captivate audiences with its blend of comedy, unpredictability, and fresh talent, cementing its place as a cultural institution in American television.