from his debut to latest hosting gig 30 years later

In 1995, with the show’s 21st season, Will officially made his debut as a cast member, and quickly became known for his screwball sensibilities, ease with physical comedy, and ability to lean into funny accents and impressions.

His impressions, in particular, made him one of the show’s most notable stars, particularly for playing the likes of Alex Trebek, Neil Diamond, Ted Kennedy, Al Gore, and his arguably most famous, then-president George W. Bush.

In 2002, after a seven-year tenure, Will (and Ana Gasteyer, also pictured) departed SNL. The actor was absent from several episodes during his final season while he was filming Old School, with the season finale being his final turn as a main cast member.

Just a few years later, though, Will returned to host SNL for the very first time. By this point, he was well known as part of Hollywood’s “Frat Pack,” and had credits like Old School, Elf (both 2003), Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy, and Starsky & Hutch (both 2004) under his belt.

By November 2019, Will was one of the most recognizable faces in comedy in Hollywood, an executive producer for the Emmy-winning drama Succession, and a two-time Golden Globe nominee. His return as a host (with King Princess as the musical guest) finally pushed him to the five-timers club.

After a six and a half year hiatus, Will returned as the host for May 16’s season 51 finale, joining the Wings frontman as musical guest for his sixth time as the host. And it’s safe to say, he’s definitely still got it!