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The Unbeatable 17: Who Has Hosted Saturday Night Live (SNL) The Most Times?

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The question of who has hosted Saturday Night Live (SNL) the most is a topic of intense debate among comedy fans, yet the answer has remained unchanged for over a decade. As of the current date in late 2025, the undisputed champion of the SNL hosting stage, having taken the reins 17 times, is the versatile and often controversial actor, Alec Baldwin. His record-breaking run is a testament to his comedic timing and his long-standing, often symbiotic relationship with the show, which spans from his first appearance in 1990 to his most recent in 2017.

Alec Baldwin’s legacy on the show goes far beyond just the number of times he has stood on the stage at Studio 8H. He is an institution within the institution, renowned for his impeccable hosting skills, his willingness to commit to any sketch, and his iconic, Emmy-winning portrayal of former President Donald Trump. While comedy legends like Steve Martin and Tom Hanks trail closely behind, Baldwin’s 17-episode run firmly places him at the pinnacle of SNL's guest history, a record that will be difficult for any contemporary star to break.

Alec Baldwin: The Biography of SNL's Reigning Host Champion

Alec Baldwin, born Alexander Rae Baldwin III on April 3, 1958, in Amityville, New York, is the eldest of the four famous Baldwin brothers. His career trajectory, marked by both critical acclaim and public scrutiny, has made him one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures. His success on SNL is just one facet of a long and varied career in film and television.

  • Full Name: Alexander Rae Baldwin III
  • Born: April 3, 1958 (Age 67 as of 2025)
  • Birthplace: Amityville, New York, U.S.
  • Occupation: Actor, Producer, Comedian, Political Activist
  • Notable Filmography: Beetlejuice (1988), The Hunt for Red October (1990), Glengarry Glen Ross (1992), Malice (1993), The Aviator (2004), It's Complicated (2009), Blue Jasmine (2013), and the Mission: Impossible film series.
  • Television Highlights: Jack Donaghy on 30 Rock (2006–2013), for which he won two Primetime Emmy Awards, and his recurring role as Donald Trump on SNL.
  • SNL Debut Host: April 21, 1990 (Season 15, Episode 18)
  • Record-Breaking Host Appearance (16th time): September 24, 2011 (Season 37 Premiere)
  • Total Hosting Appearances: 17 times.

Baldwin’s ability to transition seamlessly between serious dramatic roles and sharp comedic performances made him an ideal SNL host. His early appearances were defined by his leading-man charm and his willingness to play absurd characters. As his career progressed, his frequent returns solidified his status as a go-to host for the show, culminating in him breaking the long-standing record held by Steve Martin in 2011. He would later extend that record to 17 times in 2017.

The Exclusive Club: Who are the Most Frequent SNL Hosts?

While Alec Baldwin holds the top spot, the list of the most frequent SNL hosts is a who's who of comedy royalty and versatile actors who have proven their enduring connection with the show's format and audience. The ability to host SNL multiple times requires not only fame but a unique blend of comedic timing, sketch comedy chops, and a willingness to work within the show's chaotic, fast-paced environment. These are the stars who have hosted the show the most, putting them in an elite tier of comedy history.

The Top 5 Most Frequent SNL Hosts (As of 2025)

The gap between the top two hosts, Alec Baldwin and Steve Martin, is extremely narrow, making their rivalry one of the most compelling pieces of SNL trivia.

  • 1. Alec Baldwin (17 Times): The current record holder. His appearances are characterized by his sharp delivery and versatility, famously portraying characters like Pete Schweddy from "Schweddy Balls" and his political satire as Donald Trump.
  • 2. Steve Martin (16 Times): Martin held the record for many years. His hosting style is legendary, known for his "Wild and Crazy Guys" sketches, his arrow-through-the-head prop, and his overall absurdist humor. He remains a beloved figure and frequently makes cameo appearances.
  • 3. John Goodman (13 Times): A powerhouse of a host, Goodman is known for his incredible commitment to character and his ability to anchor a sketch. He is one of the show's most reliable and consistent guest stars.
  • 4. Buck Henry (10 Times): An original SNL legend, Henry was the first person to host 10 times and was instrumental in the show's early success, frequently appearing in the famous "Samurai" sketches with John Belushi.
  • 5. Tom Hanks (10 Times): The beloved "America's Dad" is also an SNL icon, known for popularizing the character of David S. Pumpkins and for his consistently warm and funny monologues.

The SNL Five-Timers Club: A Mark of Comedic Royalty

The true measure of an SNL hosting legend is membership in the prestigious Five-Timers Club, a fictional, yet highly coveted, group established by the show itself. The concept was first introduced in a 1990 sketch when Tom Hanks hosted for the fifth time. Membership is granted to anyone who has hosted the show at least five times, and it is marked by a custom-made velvet smoking jacket.

Joining the club is a significant career milestone, signaling a performer's ability to not only draw an audience but to thrive in the high-pressure, live environment of SNL. As of 2025, the club includes over 25 members, a testament to the show's longevity and its draw for A-list talent.

Notable Members and SNL Entities

The list of Five-Timers Club members is a testament to the show’s cultural impact, featuring a diverse range of actors, comedians, and musicians. The club has several interesting distinctions:

  • The First Member: The late actor and writer Buck Henry was the first person to host five times, achieving the milestone in November 1977. He eventually hosted 10 times.
  • Female Record Holder: The current female record holders are Candice Bergen, Tina Fey, and Drew Barrymore, each having hosted 5 times. Scarlett Johansson also joined the club in 2019, making her the most recent female inductee.
  • Host/Musical Guest: Paul Simon is one of the few celebrities to host five times and also serve as the musical guest, a rare double-duty achievement.
  • Cast Member Host: Eddie Murphy holds the unique distinction of being the only person to host an episode while still a member of the current cast, doing so on December 11, 1982.
  • Recent Inductees: Recent years have seen new members join the ranks, including Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, and Emma Stone, demonstrating the club's continued relevance in the show's modern era.

The enduring popularity of the Five-Timers Club, often celebrated with sketches featuring existing members welcoming the new inductee, highlights the shared history and camaraderie among those who have successfully navigated the demanding world of Saturday Night Live. While Alec Baldwin’s 17 appearances may never be matched, the true legacy of SNL hosting is the collective talent of this elite group of comedy veterans.

The Unbeatable 17: Who Has Hosted Saturday Night Live (SNL) The Most Times?
who has hosted snl the most
who has hosted snl the most

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