Saturday Night Live has been practically unrivaled in its domination of late-night weekend television since its beginning in 1975. Cast members’ success on the show almost guarantees them stardom in the future. A guest appearance can be a turning point in their careers for musicians, comedians, actors, and other public figures.
Because SNL only makes about 20 episodes a year, the people chosen to be the guest host or musical performers in those few episodes have a lot of success or are on the verge of it. Therefore, it’s a pity when celebrities are given a valuable opportunity only to have it vanish in their faces.
While hundreds of brilliant hosts, rocking bands, talented repertory players, and unforgettable singers have performed on the SNL stage at Rockefeller Center, only a few have managed to avoid being asked back. These are the major stars who have been barred from appearing on SNL.
1. Donald Trump
| Donald Trump | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Donald John Trump |
| Birthdate | June 14, 1946 |
| Age | 77 |
| Birthplace | Queens, New York City, U.S. |
| Occupation | American politician, media personality, businessman |
| Alma Mater | Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania |
| Parents | Fred Trump, Mary Anne MacLeod Trump |
| Spouses | Ivana Zelníčková (m. 1977; div. 1990) |
| Children | Donald Jr., Ivanka, Eric, Tiffany, Barron |
| Political Party | Republican (1987–1999, 2009–2011, 2012–present) |
| Religion | Non-denominational Christian |
| Residence | Mar-a-Lago |
| Achievements | 45th President of the United States, host of The Apprentice, real estate business expansion |
| Notable Actions | Implementation of travel ban, diverting military funding for border wall, trade war with China |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be $2.4 billion (as of 2021) |
| Legal Actions | Involved in over 4,000 state and federal legal actions, including six bankruptcies |
| Ranking | Considered one of the worst presidents in American history |
| 2024 Presidential | Announced candidacy for the Republican nomination |
| Indictments | Indicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records and 37 counts related to classified documents |
Donald John Trump is a politician, media personality, and businessman from the United States. His birthday was on June 14, 1946, and he served as the United States’ 45th President from 2017 to 2021.
This is maybe “Saturday Night Live” at its most debatable. Lorne Michael requested Trump to host the show while campaigning for President in the run-up to the 2016 election in a truly ridiculous attempt to boost ratings. Despite his numerous personality faults, offensive campaign statements, and absolute lack of ability, the program allowed him to continue utilizing their show to enhance his signal.
Read more about Donald Trump’s height here.
2. Will Smith
| Will Smith | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Willard Carroll Smith II |
| Other Names | The Fresh Prince |
| Birthdate | September 25, 1968 |
| Birthplace | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, Rapper, Film Producer |
| Years Active | 1985–present |
| Organizations | Westbrook, Overbrook Entertainment |
| Spouses | Sheree Zampino, Jada Pinkett |
| Children | 3 (including Jaden and Willow) |
| Awards | Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Grammy Awards |
| Musical Career | Pop-rap |
| Labels | Interscope, Columbia, RCA, Jive |
| Formerly of | DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince |
| Films Grossed | Over $9.3 billion globally |
| Major Films | Bad Boys, Men in Black series, Independence Day, Ali |
| Accolades | Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Grammy Awards |
| Controversy | Banned from attending Academy functions for ten years |
Willard Carroll Smith II, for other people named Will Smith. Will is an American rapper and actor who was born on September 25, 1968. He goes by the stage name The Fresh Prince.
Will slapped Chris Rock for the final option’s joke about Jada Pinkett Smith’s shorn head at the 2022 Foundation Grants in the Spring.
After that, Will yelled twice at the comedian, “Keep my wife’s name out of your f**king mouth!” Radar Online claims that the star of “King Richard” will never be invited back to “SNL.”
He has apologized multiple times for his actions during the live event.
Read more about Will Smith’s Height and his biography here.
3. Adrien Brody
| Adrien Brody | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Adrien Brody |
| Birthdate | April 14, 1973 (age 50) |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Alma Mater | City University of New York |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Notable Achievements | Academy Award for Best Actor winner for The Pianist |
| Collaborations | Frequent collaborator of Wes Anderson |
| TV Appearances | Peaky Blinders, Succession |
| Emmy Award Nominations | Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Houdini and Succession |
| Ethnicity | Polish Jewish descent with Hungarian and Czech roots |
| Early Career | Performed magic shows as “The Amazing Adrien” |
| Breakthrough Role | Lead role in Roman Polanski’s The Pianist |
| Controversial SNL Appearance | Controversial introduction for Sean Paul wearing faux dreadlocks and a Jamaican accent |
| Successful Films | The Pianist, The Grand Budapest Hotel, King Kong |
| Additional Endeavors | Runway model for Prada, Stella Artois ad, Houdini miniseries |
| Personal Life | Dated Elsa Pataky, signed petition for Roman Polanski’s release |
| Recent Relationship | In a relationship with Georgina Chapman |
American actor Adrien Nicholas Brody was born on April 14, 1973. He garnered global acclaim and affection after playing Wladyslaw Szpilman in Roman Polanski’s The Pianist (2002), for which he won the Academy Award at 29. He was the youngest actor to win an Academy Award in that category. After Christopher Lambert, Brody is the second male American actor to win the César Award for Best Actor.
Even if only for how insane it was at the time, this bizarre one has legs. When introducing musician Sean Paul, Brody decided to deviate from the script. The issue? This included speaking with a broad Jamaican accent and donning a dreadlock wig. Brody hasn’t been back since, naturally.
4. Rage Against The Machine
| Rage Against The | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rage Against The Machine |
| Origin | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Rap metal, rap rock, funk metal, alternative metal |
| Years Active | 1991–2000, 2007–2011, 2019–present |
| Labels | Epic, Revelation |
| Spinoffs | Audioslave, One Day as a Lion, The Nightwatchman, Wakrat, Prophets of Rage |
| Members | Tim Commerford, Zack de la Rocha, Tom Morello, Brad Wilk |
| Background Information | American rock band from Los Angeles, California |
| Musical Style | Fusion of heavy metal, rap, punk rock, and funk |
| Political Views | Revolutionary socialist |
| Achievements | Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame |
| Sales Records | Over 16 million records sold worldwide |
| Debut Album | Self-titled debut album released in 1992 |
| Commercial Success | “Evil Empire” and “The Battle of Los Angeles” albums topped charts |
| Influence | Highly influential band in the nu metal genre |
| Hiatus and Reunion | Disbanded in 2000, reunited in 2007, world tour postponed |
| Side Projects | Audioslave, One Day as a Lion, The Nightwatchman, Prophets of Rage |
| Activism | Support for various political and social causes |
| Controversies | Altercation during the filming of the “Sleep Now in the Fire” video |
| Accolades | Ranked among VH1’s 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock |
| Sales Certification | “Rage Against the Machine” album certified triple platinum |
Rage Against the Machine is a rock band from Los Angeles, California, U.S. Framed in 1991, the gathering comprises entertainer Zack de la Rocha, bassist and sponsorship singer Tim Commerford, guitarist Tom Morello, and drummer Brad Wilk. The band is well-known for its revolutionary socialist political views and amalgamation of heavy metal and rap music with punk rock and funk influences.
When billionaire presidential candidate Steve Forbes hosted “Saturday Night Live,” the overtly political Rage Against the Machine performed as musical guests, what was the host thinking? Before performing, Rage hung upside-down American flags, which are typically a sign of distress. Before Rage Against the Machine could even start playing a second song, the flags were quickly taken down.
5. Martin Lawrence
| Martin Lawrence | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Martin Fitzgerald Lawrence |
| Birth Date | April 16, 1965 |
| Age | 58 |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Comedian, Actor |
| Notable Works | Martin, Bad Boys franchise, House Party, Boomerang, Big Momma’s House |
| Family | Father: John Lawrence Mother: Chlora (née Bailey) Spouse: Patricia Southall (m. 1995; div. 1997), Shamicka Gibbs (m. 2010; div. 2012) Children: Jasmine Page Lawrence, Iyanna Faith Lawrence, Amara Trinity Lawrence |
| Early Life | Born in Frankfurt, West Germany; Moved to the United States at a young age; Lived in Landover, Maryland |
| Boxing Career | Excelled at boxing during his teen years; Mid-Atlantic Golden Gloves boxing contender |
| Career Breakthrough | Star Search appearance; Role as Maurice Warfield in What’s Happening Now!!; Breakthrough role as Cee in Do the Right Thing; Hosted Def Comedy Jam |
| TV Series | Martin (1992-1997); Saturday Night Live appearance |
| Film Career | House Party series, Boomerang, Blue Streak, Big Momma’s House |
| Recent Projects | Bad Boys for Life (2020), Mindcage (2022) |
| Accomplishments | Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (2023) |
| Personal Life | Engaged to Lark Voorhies; Married Patricia Southall and Shamicka Gibbs; Owned a farm in Virginia; Sold Beverly Hills mansion; Overcame past legal and personal challenges |
American actor and comedian Martin Fitzgerald Lawrence was born on April 16, 1965. He rose to stardom as a notable Hollywood actor in the 1990s. He also appeared in the Fox television series A Thin Line Between Love and Hate.
It is clear that before hosting “Saturday Night Live,” Lawrence did not read over his material.
Lawrence pressed hard, sounding rather explicit in his comments about female hygiene and genitalia.
In addition to being prohibited from the program, Lawrence’s name was also blacklisted for several seasons.
During his SNL hosting gig in 1994, Martin Lawrence was banned for life following his inappropriate monologue that contained sexually explicit jokes and racial slurs. Looking for more hilarious comedies from the 90s? Check out our list of funniest black movies of all time for a good laugh!
6. Sinead O’Connor
| Sinead O Connor | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sinead O’Connor |
| Birthdate | December 8, 1966 |
| Birthplace | Glenageary, County Dublin, Ireland |
| Nationality | Irish |
| Occupation | Singer-songwriter |
| Genres | Rock, pop, folk |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, keyboards |
| Years Active | 1986 – present |
| Labels | Ensign, Chrysalis, Vanguard, Nettwerk |
| Notable Works | “Nothing Compares 2 U,” “Mandinka” |
| Awards | Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music |
| Controversial SNL Appearance | Yes |
| SNL Performance | Protested against child abuse in war |
Shuhada Sadaqat is an Irish singer-songwriter. She was born Sinéad Marie Bernadette O’Connor on December 8, 1966. The Lion and the Cobra, her first album, was released in 1987 and reached the top of the worldwide album charts. The Billboard Music Awards named “Nothing Compares 2 U,” Prince’s lead single, the number one worldwide single in 1990.
One of the most well-known lines in “SNL” history did not come from a skit. No, instead of singing Bob Marley’s “War,” O’Connor tore a photo of the Pope to pieces and yelled, “Fight the true enemy!” Naturally, the problems O’Connor was screaming against within the Catholic Church are now starkly visible to us. She was mocked back then, and several times on “Saturday Night Live” in the years that followed.
7. Cypress Hill
| Cypress Hill | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cypress Hill |
| Also known as | DVX (1988) |
| Origin | South Gate, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, Latin hip hop, hardcore hip hop, West Coast hip hop |
| Years Active | 1988–present |
| Labels | Ruffhouse, Columbia, Priority, EMI |
| Members | B-Real, Sen Dog, Eric Bobo |
| Past Members | Mellow Man Ace, DJ Muggs |
Cypress Hill is a hip-hop group from South Gate, California, in the United States. They have been a significant influence on West Coast and 1990s hip hop. The members of the group all support cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes. The first hip-hop group to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was Cypress Hill in 2019.
Cypress Hill received a dressing room from SNL staffers, but they were instructed not to smoke marijuana there. Sen Dog, a bandmate, told the Village Voice that DJ Muggs “felt like he needed to make a statement with his performance.” That assertion? Smoking marijuana lives on television in 1993, when society was much more conservative.
“It wasn’t just the Saturday Night Live people saying he couldn’t smoke up on air,” Sen Dog recalled. Everyone was there: our management, record label, and friends.” Muggs attempted to light the joint himself after Sen Dog refused to do so. The rapper claimed that at the episode’s post-party, people associated with SNL told Cypress Hill that what they did was “so cool,” but that higher-ups disagreed. We were removed from Saturday Night Live forever after the hammer struck.”
Looking for rappers with rumored links to the Bloods? Check out our article on the top 25 famous rappers who are said to have connections with the infamous gang. From Tupac to Snoop Dogg, these rappers are known for their musical talent as well as their rumored ties to the Bloods.
8. Robert Blake
| Robert Blake | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Blake |
| Birthdate | September 18, 1933 |
| Birthplace | Nutley, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Other Names | Bobby Blake, Lyman P. Docker, Mickey Gubitosi |
| Occupation | Prolific Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor |
| Years Active | 1939–1997 |
| Known For | Starring in “In Cold Blood” and TV series “Baretta” |
| Childhood Career | Lead role in MGM’s “Our Gang” (Little Rascals) series |
| Breakthrough Role | Portraying Perry Smith in “In Cold Blood” |
| Notable TV Series | “Baretta” |
| Legal Controversy | Acquitted of the murder of his second wife |
| Spouses | Sondra Kerr (m. 1961; div. 1983) |
| Children | 3 |
A retired American actor, Robert Blake was born Michael James Gubitosi and is best known for appearing in the 1970s American television series Baretta (born September 18, 1933).
Bonnie Lee Bakley, the wife of Little Rascals and Baretta star Robert Blake, was killed in 2001. Blake was accused of shooting the gunman in 2005. Blake was found not guilty after a long and scandalous trial.
This is all NOT why Blake was prohibited from Saturday Night Live.
Although Blake hosted the show in 1982, he had yet to meet Bakley. However, throughout the episode, Blake displayed a vicious temper and insulted cast members in various ways. The final straw was an incident in which a script was ripped up and thrown at a writer.
9. The Replacements
| The Replacements | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | The Replacements |
| Background | American rock band formed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1979 |
| Pioneers of | Alternative rock |
| Composed of | Paul Westerberg (Guitarist/Vocalist), Bob Stinson (Guitarist), Tommy Stinson (Bass Guitarist), Chris Mars (Drummer) |
| Key Albums | Let It Be, Tim |
| Major Influences | The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Faces, Big Star, Slade, Badfinger, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Bob Dylan |
| Music Style | “Heart-on-the-sleeve” rock with raw-throated vocals and self-deprecating lyrics |
| Notable Members | Paul Westerberg, Tommy Stinson, Chris Mars, Bob Stinson, Slim Dunlap, Steve Foley |
| Years Active | 1979–1991, 2006, 2012–2015 |
| Labels | Twin/Tone, Sire |
| Notable Albums | Sorry Ma, Forgot to Take Out the Trash, Let It Be, Tim |
| Departure of Bob Stinson | Kicked out of the band in 1986 |
| Lead Guitarist | Slim Dunlap (Joined after Bob Stinson’s departure) |
| Drummer Replacement | Steve Foley (Replaced Chris Mars in 1990) |
| Band Disbandment | Disbanded in 1991, with members pursuing various projects |
| Reunion Announcement | Reunion announced on October 3, 2012 |
| Nickname | The ‘Mats (Affectionate nickname) |
| Origin of Nickname | Originated as a truncation of “The Placemats,” a mispronunciation of their name |
| Record Label Signing | Signed with Twin/Tone Records in 1980 |
| Debut Album | Sorry Ma, Forgot to Take Out the Trash (Released in August 1981) |
| First Single | “I’m in Trouble” (Featured on the debut album) |
| EP Release | Stink EP released in June 1982 |
| Maturing Sound | Let It Be and Tim albums showcased a more mature and diverse musical style |
| Influence on the Scene | Considered one of the influential and important bands in the alternative rock genre |
The Replacements was an American rock band formed in 1979. Originally a hardcore punk band, they are regarded as one of the ancestors of alternative rock.
The Replacements were a good band, but their live concerts were renowned for being sloppy and intoxicated. They didn’t want to deviate from tradition on “Saturday Night Live.” The band was inebriated during their first song and then changed clothes before their second drunken performance of the night. That degree of irresponsibility resulted in a ban.
When a cast member couldn’t perform their duties on SNL, another talented individual was brought in to fill the void. Read Full List of Army Jobs to discover which MOS and Army Jobs are in high demand and jobs can offers you a stable career path.
10. Steven Seagal
| Steven Seagal | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steven Frederic Seagal |
| Born | April 10, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Lansing, Michigan, U.S. |
| Citizenship | American, Serbian, Russian |
| Alma Mater | Fullerton College |
| Occupations | Actor, screenwriter, martial artist, musician, producer |
| Years Active | 1982–present |
| Style | Aikido |
| Height | 6 ft 4 in |
| Spouses | Miyako Fujitani, Adrienne La Russa, Kelly LeBrock, Erdenetuya Batsukh |
| Children | 7, including Ayako Fujitani |
| Martial Arts Background | 7th-dan black belt in Aikido |
| Notable Films | Under Siege, Under Siege 2: Dark Territory, Exit Wounds |
| Music Career | Released two studio albums: Songs from the Crystal Cave and Mojo Priest |
| Environmental Activism | Known for being an environmentalist and animal rights activist |
| Controversies | Accusations of sexual harassment and assault |
| Television Series | Steven Seagal: Lawman, True Justice |
| Direct-to-Video Films | Actively involved in producing and starring in various direct-to-video movies |
American actor, martial artist, and screenwriter Steven Frederic Seagal was born on April 10, 1952.
As a 7th-dan black belt in aikido, Seagal finally took charge of his father-in-law law’s after starting his adult life as a martial arts teacher in Japan.
He later moved to Los Angeles, where he worked in the same sector and made his acting debut in the 1988 film Above the Law. By 1991, he had acted in four films.
Hundreds of hosts have passed through the “Saturday Night Live” studio, so Lorne Michaels calling you the worst host ever is saying a lot. This is the “honor” he conferred to Seagal, who appeared to be challenging to deal with. Let’s just say that we aren’t shocked. Later, when participating in a show presented by Nicolas Cage, Michaels criticized Seagal.
11. Andy Kauffman
| Andy Kauffman | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andy Kaufman |
| Birthdate | January 17, 1949 |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, U.S. |
| Died | May 16, 1984 |
| Resting Place | Beth David Cemetery |
| Occupations | Actor, Comedian, Singer, Dancer, Performance Artist, Wrestler |
| Years Active | 1971–1984 |
| Style | Anti-humor, Cringe humor, Character comedy, Surreal comedy, Improvisational comedy |
| Partner | Lynne Margulies (1982–1984) |
| Children | 1 |
| Notable Characters | Latka Gravas (Taxi), Tony Clifton |
| Television | Saturday Night Live, Taxi, Late Night with David Letterman |
| Legacy | Unique performances, Counterintuitive approach to comedy |
| Award Nominations | Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Limited Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television |
Andrew Geoffrey Kaufman was an American performer and entertainer who lived from January 17, 1949, until May 16, 1984. Despite frequently being referred to as a “comedian,” Kaufman preferred to refer to himself as a “song and dance man.” He has been referred to as an “anti-comedian.”
The entire purpose of Kaufman’s project was to arouse debate and prevent you from knowing what was true and what was phony. He definitely did it on “Fridays,” a different sketch comedy program. But he also carried his act to “Saturday Night Live.” In a specific episode, Kaufman requested audience feedback on whether or not he should be suspended from the program. In the end, “Dump Andy” triumphed over “Keep Andy,” and at Kaufman’s request, “SNL” fired him.
Although Andy Kauffman was banned from SNL, his unique style of humor inspired many people and made him one of the best male stand up comedians of the 70s.
12. Fear
| Fear | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fear |
| Formed | 1977 |
| Origin | Los Angeles, California |
| Genres | Punk rock, hardcore punk |
| Years Active | 1977–present |
| Notable Performance | Infamous 1981 appearance on Saturday Night Live |
| Frontman | Lee Ving (only constant member) |
| Notable Members | Philo Cramer, Spit Stix, Derf Scratch (classic lineup 1978-1982) |
| Past Members | Burt Good, Johnny Backbeat, Eric Feldman, Flea, Lorenzo Buhne, and more |
| Labels | Slash, Fear, Sector 2 |
| Documentary Appearance | The Decline of Western Civilization (1981) |
| Controversial SNL Gig | $20,000 in damage, resulted in some clubs refusing to hire the band |
| Film Appearance | American Pop (1981) |
| Reunion | Reunited in 2018 with additional members Geoff Kresge and Eric Razo |
| Influence and Legacy | Influenced bands, covered by other artists, featured in video game soundtracks |
Fear, a Los Angeles punk band, had such a strong influence on John Belushi that he agreed to appear on “Saturday Night Live” in 1981 in exchange for their participation as musical guests.
Even though the band had slam dancers with them, the concert continued.
Fear’s performance was cut short when its followers damaged property worth hundreds of dollars.
13. Milton Berle
| Milton Berle | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Milton Berle |
| Born | July 12, 1908 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Died | March 27, 2002 |
| Resting Place | Hillside Memorial Park Cemetery |
| Other Names | Mr. Television, Uncle Miltie, Mr. Tuesday Night |
| Education | Professional Children’s School |
| Occupations | Actor, Comedian |
| Years Active | 1913–2000 |
| Spouses | Joyce Mathews, Ruth Cosgrove Rosenthal, Lorna Adams |
| Children | 3 |
| Career Highlights | – Over 80 years as an actor and comedian |
Milton Berle was born into a Jewish family, and when he was 16 years old, he chose Milton Berle as his professional name. Moses Berlinger, born in 1872 and died in 1938, was a paint and varnish salesman. When Milton became well-known, his mother, Sarah (Sadie) Glantz Berlinger (1877–1954), changed her name to Sandra Berle. He had three older brothers, the youngest being Jack, Phil, and Frank Berle Phil was an NBC programming executive, while the latter two worked on Berle’s TV production team for many years.
In 1979, Milton Berle made it clear to everyone how significant he was when he arrived on the Saturday Night Live set. He even began skits and jokes by saying, “Now, this might be over your heads.” This incited the cast to turn on Berle.
However, they were still experts and quick to see the task out. But things got worse when Berle got on stage as he promoted his autobiography and kept losing the cameras, and he never returned to the show.
14. Charles Grodin
| Charles Grodin | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Sidney Grodin |
| Birthdate | April 21, 1935 |
| Birthplace | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Occupation | Actor, comedian, author, TV talk show host |
| Years Active | 1954–2017 |
| Known For | The Heartbreak Kid, Midnight Run, Beethoven |
| Spouse | Julie Ferguson (divorced), Elissa Durwood |
| Children | 2 |
| Place of Death | Wilton, Connecticut, U.S. |
| Notable Achievements | Golden Globe Award nomination, Emmy Award |
| Broadway Debut | Tchin-Tchin, opposite Anthony Quinn |
| Talk Show Host | CNBC’s “The Charles Grodin Show” |
| Memorable Films | The Heartbreak Kid, Midnight Run, Beethoven |
| Educational Background | Studied acting at HB Studio under Uta Hagen |
| Notable TV Role | Dr. Bigelow in Louis C.K.’s “Louie” |
| Books | Author of eight books, including “The Right Kind |
Even though Charles Grodin (April 21, 1935 – May 18, 2021) is a well-known actor, he doesn’t matter much in the zany SNL halls. When you performed on SNL in 1977, you had to bring your A-game because the cast was so impressive. Gordin couldn’t even bother to do that.
Grodin, the star of Rosemary’s Baby, frequently skipped the show’s rehearsals and even attempted to improvise lines after arriving late, both of which were significant mistakes in the world of Saturday Night Live.
However, perhaps his biggest mistake was failing to blend in with the exuberant cast, particularly John Belushi, who stated that Grodin’s most significant issue was that “he doesn’t smoke dope,” confirming, “He’s not one of us.”
15. Elvis Costello
| Elvis Costello | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elvis Costello |
| Birth Name | Declan Patrick MacManus |
| Also Known As | D.P. Costello |
| Birthdate | August 25, 1954 |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Genres | New wave |
| Occupation(s) | Singer |
| Instrument(s) | Vocals |
| Years Active | 1970–present |
| Labels | Stiff |
| Member of | The New Basement Tapes |
| Formerly of | The Attractions |
| Spouse(s) | Mary Burgoyne |
Elvis Costello, professionally known as Declan Patrick MacManus OBE, is an English singer-songwriter and record producer born on August 25, 1954.
The episode of “SNL,” aired on December 17, 1977, featured two bizarre events. First, Miskel Spillman, an 80-year-old German immigrant who had won an “Anybody Can Host” competition, served as the host. Two, Elvis Costello, a musician, decided to switch the show and his record label. After being asked to sing “Less Than Zero,” Costello stopped his band, apologized, and started playing “Radio, Radio.” Even though it caused him controversy at the time, sanity prevailed, and Costello mocked it in the show’s 25th-anniversary special.
16. Louise Lasser
| Louise Lasser | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Louise Marie Lasser |
| Birthdate | April 11, 1939 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actress, Television Writer, Performing Arts Teacher, Director |
| Known For | Portrayal of Mary Hartman on “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman” |
| Spouse | Woody Allen (m. 1966; div. 1970) |
| Notable Films | Take the Money and Run, Bananas, Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex* (*But Were Afraid to Ask), Stardust Memories, Requiem for a Dream, Mystery Men, Happiness |
| Television Roles | The Doctors, Love, American Style, The Bob Newhart Show, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Taxi, St. Elsewhere, It’s a Living |
| Theatrical Credits | A Coupla White Chicks Sitting Around Talking, Marie and Bruce |
| Notable Characters | Mary Hartman (Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman), Maggie McBurney (It’s a Living), Aunt Charise (St. Elsewhere) |
Actress, television writer, educator, and artistic director Louise Marie Lasser hails from the United States. On April 11, 1939, she was born.
On July 24, 1976, Lasser hosted the final episode of Saturday Night Live’s inaugural season. Her opening monologue, in which she recreates a nervous breakdown resembling Mary Hartman and locks herself in her dressing room, is the part of her performance that is most well-known. Chevy Chase/Land Shark then persuades her to leave with the promise of appearing on the cover of Time.
According to some reports, Lasser was the first to be banned from SNL due to her erratic behavior on the show.
17. David Bowie
| David Bowie | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | David Bowie |
| Born | 8 January 1947 |
| Died | 10 January 2016 |
| Occupations | Singer-songwriter, actor |
| Years Active | 1962-2016 |
| Works | Discography, songs, videography, filmography |
| Spouses | Angie Barnett, Iman |
| Children | 2 (including Duncan Jones) |
| Musical Genres | Art rock, glam rock, pop, electronic |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, keyboards, saxophone, harmonica |
| Labels | ISO, RCA, Virgin, EMI, Columbia, Deram, Mercury, BMG, Pye, Vocalion, Parlophone, Ryko |
| Formerly of | The Konrads, The King Bees, The Manish Boys, The Lower Third, The Riot Squad, Hype, Arnold Corns, Tin Machine |
| Influence and Impact | Regarded as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century |
| Commercial Success | Record sales estimated at over 100 million worldwide, multiple platinum and gold certifications |
| Cultural Significance | Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, ranked among the greatest artists in history |
| Legacy | Best-selling vinyl artist of the 21st century |
| Early Life | Born in London, developed an interest in music from a young age, studied art, music, and design |
| Career Highlights | Notable albums: “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars,” “Young Americans,” “Let’s Dance” |
| Acting Career | Roles in films such as “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” “Labyrinth,” and “The Prestige” |
| Final Years | Returned to the music scene with “The Next Day,” released final album “Blackstar” shortly before his death |
David Robert Jones, who was born on January 8, 1947, and died on January 10, 2016, was an English actor and singer-songwriter. David Bowie was his professional name.
Following an act of disobedience, he was escorted off the premises of SNL.
David Bowie was allegedly once prohibited from performing on Saturday Night Live.
Bowie’s tumultuous history with executive producer Lorne Michaels led in a three-year suspension for the Starman, who couldn’t help but poke fun at his old pal after preparing to perform a series of comic routines.
David Bowie is another Celebrities Banned from SNL. The English singer, songwriter, and actor also appeared in the show’s third season in 1977. Bowie is known for his flamboyant pop style and was banned after breaking dress code rules and not coming back for the live taping. Discover more about popular celebrities at Hood MWR.
18. System Of A Down
| System Of A Down | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | System Of A Down |
| Also known as | SOAD, System |
| Origin | Glendale, California, U.S. |
| Genres | Alternative metal, nu metal, heavy metal, hard rock, progressive metal |
| Years Active | 1994–2006, 2010–present |
| Labels | American, Columbia |
| Spinoffs | Scars on Broadway |
| Members | Serj Tankian, Daron Malakian, Shavo Odadjian, John Dolmayan |
| Past members | Andy Khachaturian |
| Formed | 1994 |
| Commercial Success | Sold over 12 million records worldwide |
| Notable Songs | “Chop Suey!”, “Toxicity”, “Aerials” |
| Notable Albums | “Toxicity”, “Mezmerize”, “Hypnotize” |
| Grammy Awards | 1 (Best Hard Rock Performance for “B.Y.O.B.”) |
| Political Activism | Known for socially and politically conscious lyrics |
| Music Style | Blend of heavy metal, punk rock, and Armenian folk influences |
| Cultural Background | All members of Armenian descent |
| Education | Serj Tankian and Daron Malakian attended Rose and Alex Pilibos Armenian School |
| Formation of Band | Formed after previous band Soil split up |
| Name Origin | Derived from a poem titled “Victims of a Down” by Daron Malakian |
| Record Deal | Signed with American/Columbia Records under Rick Rubin |
| Debut Album | Released self-titled album “System of a Down” |
| Breakthrough Album | “Toxicity” reached No. 1 on charts |
| Controversial Single | “Chop Suey!” faced radio censorship |
| Social Impact | Songs “Aerials” and “Hypnotize” reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Alternative Songs chart |
| Band Hiatus | Went on hiatus in 2006 and reunited in 2010 |
| Recent Activity | Released two new songs, “Protect the Land” and “Genocidal Humanoidz” |
In 1994, the Armenian-American heavy metal group System of a Down (often referred to as SoaD or just System) was founded in Glendale, California.
System of a Down were booked to perform ‘Bring Your Own Bombs’ on SNL. The track was written in protest against the Iraq War and heavily leaned towards stringent rules set out by the show’s producers. Guitarist Daron Malakian refused to perform an edited version of the song, leading to production staff having to hold back most of the performance until he proudly shouted “f*** yeah” in protest.
19. Frank Zappa
| Frank Zappa | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Frank Vincent Zappa |
| Birthdate | December 21, 1940 |
| Birthplace | Baltimore, Maryland, U.S. |
| Death | December 4, 1993 |
| Occupations | Composer, Musician, Bandleader |
| Years Active | 1955–1993 |
| Spouses | Kay Sherman, Gail Sloatman |
| Children | Moon Unit Zappa, Dweezil Zappa, Ahmet Zappa, Diva Zappa |
| Musical Career | Origin: Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Instruments | Guitar, Vocals, Synclavier, Percussion |
| Labels | Verve, Bizarre, Straight, DiscReet, Zappa, Barking Pumpkin, Rykodisc |
| Formerly of | The Mothers of Invention |
| Musical Influence | Innovative, Stylistically diverse, Influence on musicians and composers |
| Legacy | Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Challenges | Terminal Prostate Cancer diagnosis |
| Notable Traits | Nonconformity, Free-form improvisation, Sound experimentation |
Frank Vincent Zappa was an American musician, composer, and bandleader who was born on December 21, 1940, and died on December 4, 1993.
Even if you aren’t a fan of Frank Zappa, you can probably picture him proudly hosting “SNL,” right? That’s precisely what transpired.
Zappa continued to mug for the camera and even claimed to be reading from cue cards to the audience.
He probably made himself laugh, but no one on the show seemed to be having fun.
20. Kanye West
| Kanye West | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kanye Omari West |
| Birthdate | June 8, 1977 (age 46) |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. |
| Other Names | Ye[a], Yeezus, Saint Pablo, Yeezy, Louis Vuitton Don |
| Education | Chicago State University (no degree) |
| Occupations | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, fashion designer |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Spouse | Kim Kardashian |
| Children | 4 |
| Parent | Donda West (mother) |
| Genres | Hip hop, progressive rap, pop, art pop, gospel |
| Labels | GOOD, Def Jam, Roc-A-Fella |
| Formerly of | Child Rebel Soldier, Kids See Ghosts, The Throne |
| Fashion Collaborations | Nike, Louis Vuitton, Gap, A.P.C., Yeezy collaboration with Adidas |
| Family Background | Parents divorced, raised by mother, father’s involvement in Black Panther Party, mother’s career as a professor |
Kanye Omari West, aka Ye; American rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, and fashion designer (born June 8, 1977).
When doesn’t Kanye make a big deal out of himself? Despite being instructed not to do so, West concluded an episode in 2018 with a performance.
During his performance, the show ended, but afterward, while cast members were uncomfortable in the wings, he began to scold the audience. It was like being held hostage, according to Kenan Thompson.
If you find Kanye West, an interesting person, you may want to find out more about Kanye West’s height and biography here.
Did you know that Kanye West’s height has been a topic of debate for years? Despite his claims of being 5’8″, many people believe he is actually much shorter. Regardless, Kanye West has made headlines for more than just his height, as he has been banned from SNL for his controversial behavior in the past.
21. Ashlee Simpson
| Ashlee Simpson | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ashlee Simpson |
| Birthdate | October 3, 1984 |
| Birthplace | Waco, Texas, U.S. |
| Other Names | Ashlee Simpson-Wentz, Ashlee Simpson Ross |
| Occupations | Singer, Actress, Dancer, Fashion Designer |
| Years Active | 1999–present |
| Spouses | Pete Wentz, Evan Ross |
| Children | 3 |
| Relatives | Jessica Simpson (sister) |
| Genres | Pop Rock, Pop Punk (dubious – discuss), Alternative Rock |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Labels | Geffen, First Access |
| Notable Achievements | Breakout single “Pieces of Me” and successful debut album “Autobiography” |
| Major Albums | Autobiography, I Am Me, Bittersweet World |
| Acting Career | Main role on 7th Heaven and Melrose Place |
| Television Shows | The Ashlee Simpson Show, Newlyweds: Nick and Jessica |
| Controversial Moment | Lip-syncing on Saturday Night Live |
An American singer and actress, Ashley Ross (born Ashley Simpson), is better known by her stage name Ashlee Simpson.
Strangely, Simpson is the only person to ever leave “Saturday Night Live” during a performance. Why is this? A mistake when lip-syncing. I find it odd that anyone would be scandalized by a pop musician lip-synching during a performance, particularly on a show like “SNL.” However, Simpson awkwardly danced and left the stage when the wrong song started playing during her performance.
22. Chevy Chase
| Chevy Chase | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chevy Chase |
| Birth Name | Cornelius Crane Chase |
| Born | October 8, 1943 |
| Birthplace | New York City, U.S. |
| Medium | Stand-up, film, television |
| Education | Bard College (BA) |
| Years Active | 1967–present |
| Genres | Sketch comedy, improvisational comedy, physical comedy, slapstick |
| Spouse | Suzanne Hewitt, Jacqueline Carlin, Jayni Luke |
| Children | 3 |
| Key Achievements | – Three Primetime Emmy Awards |
| Career Highlights | – Key cast member in the first season of Saturday Night Live (SNL) |
| Notable Filmography | – Fletch, Caddyshack, Three Amigos! |
| Personal Life | – Born in New York City and raised in Woodstock, New York |
| Education | – Attended Bard College |
| Interesting Fact | – Nicknamed “Chevy” by his grandmother, inspired by a medieval English ballad |
| Influence and Recognition | – Ranked tenth in overall importance in Rolling Stone’s appraisal of SNL cast members |
Cornelius Crane “Chevy” Chase, an American comedian, actor, and writer, was born on October 8, 1943. Chevy Chase was one of the original members of Saturday Night Live. Chevy Chase has always had a controversial reputation, even in its first run.
Production that week was stressful. Chase gave some deeply offensive sketches and frequently criticized the actors. Last straw: He slapped Cheri O’Teri “as a joke,” and Will Ferrell told Michaels immediately. Chase has now been banned as a host on Saturday Night Live but still appears as a non-host guest.
Although Chevy Chase was one of the founding members of SNL, he was famously known for his controversial remarks and behavior on and off the set of the show. You can read more about other celebrities who have a reputation for being mean on this article.
23. Morgan Wallen
| Morgan Wallen | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Morgan Wallen |
| Born | May 13, 1993 (age 30) |
| Birthplace | Sneedville, Tennessee, US |
| Occupations | Country music singer, songwriter |
| Years Active | 2014–present |
| Works | Stand Alone (EP), If I Know Me (album), Dangerous: The Double Album (album), One Thing at a Time (album) |
| Children | 1 |
| Genres | Country pop, country, bro-country |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, piano, violin |
| Labels | Panacea, Big Loud, Republic, Mercury |
| Musical Artist | Morgan Wallen |
| The Voice | Competed in the sixth season as a member of Usher’s and Adam Levine’s teams |
| Breakthrough Album | If I Know Me (2018) |
| Billboard Records | Dangerous: The Double Album spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 |
| Personal Background | Born in Sneedville, Tennessee, parents’ names are Tommy and Lesli Wallen, attended Gibbs High School, played baseball |
| Rise to Prominence | Appeared on The Voice, gained popularity on platforms like TikTok, breakout success with album Dangerous: The Double Album |
| Ongoing Projects | One Night At A Time World Tour, released One Thing at a Time album in 2023 |
American country music performer and songwriter Morgan Cole Wallen was born on May 13, 1993.
Wallen participated in The Voice’s sixth season, first joining Usher’s team and then switching to Adam Levine’s. He signed with Panacea Records following his elimination from that season’s playoffs, and in 2015, his debut EP, Stand Alone, was made available.
The early cast of “Saturday Night Live” was famous for their wild parties.
“SNL” canceled the country singer’s visit to party at an Alabama bar during the COVID-19 pandemic without wearing a mask. SNL canceled the schedule due to his dangerous behavior.
24. Andrew Dice Clay
| Andrew Dice Clay | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Andrew Dice Clay |
| Birth Name | Andrew Clay Silverstein |
| Born | September 29, 1957 |
| Birthplace | Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn, New York, U.S. |
| Medium | Stand-up comedy, television, film |
| Years Active | 1978–present |
| Rise to Prominence | Brash, deliberately offensive persona known as “The Diceman” |
| Notable Achievements | First comedian to sell out Madison Square Garden for 2 nights |
| Additional Projects | Hosts podcast “I’m Ova Hea’ Now” |
| Education | Attended James Madison High School in Brooklyn |
| Influences | Elvis Presley, Fonzie, John Travolta, Sylvester Stallone |
| Notable Performances | Lead role in “The Adventures of Ford Fairlane” |
| Ban from SNL | Previously banned from appearing on Saturday Night Live |
| Recent Work | Starred in TV show “Dice” on Showtime |
| Radio Show | Hosts “Out of the Cage” on Sirius Satellite Radio |
Andrew Dice Clay, a.k.a. Andrew Clay Silverstein, was born September 29, 1957, is an American actor and standup comedian.
Even though the well-known schtick of Andrew Dice Clay was a character, his simple routine, which was full of sexist jokes, was not for everyone. Cast member Nora Dunn said she would not participate in the episode protesting Clay’s standup when the Dice Man was invited to host. The Dunn-free episode goes off without a hitch, despite reports that some hecklers were removed from the audience.
25. Charles Rocket
| Charles Rocket | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Charles Adams Claverie (Charlie Hamburger, Charlie Kennedy, Charles Rocket) |
| Birthdate | August 28, 1949 |
| Birthplace | Bangor, Maine, U.S. |
| Occupations | Actor, Comedian, Musician, Television News Reporter |
| Notable Works | Saturday Night Live, Dumb and Dumber, Hocus Pocus |
| Education | Rhode Island School of Design |
| Spouse | Beth Crellin |
| Children | 1 |
Charles Adams Claverie was an American actor, comedian, musician, and television news reporter. He was born on August 28, 1949, and died on October 7, 2005. He went by the stage names Charlie Hamburger, Charlie Kennedy, and Charles Rocket. He appeared as Dave Dennison in Disney’s Hocus Pocus, played the antagonist Nicholas Andre in Dumb and Dumber, and was a Saturday Night Live cast member.
We didn’t want to write an article with only people swearing and banned hosts, but they had to be included. Rocket, a cast member then, was the first to use the f-word on the show in 1981. Unlike other utterances, it didn’t seem like Rocket did it by accident. He wouldn’t stay with the show for very long.
During the 1980s, Charles Rocket was a cast member on SNL before being fired for accidental profanity. If you’re curious about other celebrities who have been banned from SNL, check out our article on celebrities with asymmetrical faces.
26. Shane Gillis
| Shane Gillis | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shane Gillis |
| Birthdate | December 11, 1987 (age 35) |
| Birthplace | Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Medium | Stand-up comedy, sketch comedy, radio, podcasting |
| Education | United States Military Academy, West Chester University, Elon University |
| Years active | 2012–present |
| Genres | Observational comedy, black comedy, off-color humor, shock humor, insult comedy, sarcasm |
| Subject(s) | Everyday life, current events, pop culture, history, human behavior, race relations, self-deprecation, drinking culture, sports |
Shane Gillis is an American stand-up comedian, podcaster, radio host, and sketch comedy writer. He was born on December 11, 1987.
For most people, joining the cast of “Saturday Night Live” is a big deal, and it would have been significant for Shane Gillis. The issue? The internet remembers a lot. Several clips showed Gillis making racist remarks about Asians after announcing the hire. Because of this, Gillis was dropped from the cast before making his debut.
27. Jenny Slate
| Jenny Slate | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jenny Sarah Slate |
| Birthdate | March 25, 1982 |
| Birthplace | Milton, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Education | Columbia University (BA) |
| Occupations | Actress, stand-up comedian, writer |
| Years Active | 2005–present |
| Known For | Saturday Night Live, Obvious Child, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On |
| Awards | Critics’ Choice Movie Award for Best Actress in a Comedy, Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture |
| Notable Roles | Obvious Child, Big Mouth, Parks and Recreation, House of Lies, Kroll Show |
| Literary Work | Little Weirds (book) |
| Voice Performances | Zootopia, The Secret Life of Pets, The Lego Batman Movie, Despicable Me 3, Everything Everywhere All at Once |
| Personal Life | Married to Ben Shattuck, one child |
| Social Impact | Advocacy for diverse representation in voice acting |
American actress, comedian, and novelist Jenny Sarah Slate was born on March 25, 1982. Slate’s use of the f-word in her first episode as a cast member attracted a lot of attention due to her rise to fame and the fact that it hadn’t happened in a while.
This was also the first time the term was used during the era of social media. Slate was repeatedly asked to say “frickin” in the sketch. Anyone could have made that error.
Did you know that Jenny Slate, one of the celebrities banned from SNL, has naturally curly hair? Check out our list of the top 50 celebrities with curly hair to get some curly hair inspiration for your next look. And while you’re at it, find out how tall her former flame, Chris Evans, is with our article on Chris Evans’ height.
28. Norm MacDonald
| Norm MacDonald | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Norm MacDonald |
| Birth Name | Norman Gene Macdonald |
| Born | October 17, 1959 |
| Birthplace | Quebec City, Canada |
| Died | September 14, 2021 |
| Medium | Stand-up, television, film, literature |
| Years Active | 1985-2021 |
| Genres | Observational comedy, deadpan, anti-humor, non sequitur, black comedy, insult comedy, satire |
| Spouse | Connie Vaillancourt (m. 1988; div. 1999) |
| Children | 1 |
| Occupation | Stand-up comedian, actor, writer |
| Notable Works | Saturday Night Live, Dirty Work, The Norm Show, Norm Macdonald Live, Based on a True Story |
| Television Shows | Saturday Night Live, The Norm Show, Norm Macdonald Live, Norm Macdonald Has a Show |
| Films | Dirty Work, Dr. Dolittle, Jack and Jill |
| Voice Acting | Family Guy, The Fairly OddParents, Mike Tyson Mysteries, The Orville, Dr. Dolittle films |
| Books | Based on a True Story |
| Legacy | Regarded as the ultimate talk show guest, known for his chaotic yet understated style of comedy |
| Cause of Death | Leukemia |
| Family | Survived by his older brother, Neil, his younger brother, Leslie, his son, Dylan, and his mother, Ferne |
| Education | Studied mathematics and philosophy at Carleton University |
| Notable Impressions | Larry King, Burt Reynolds, David Letterman, Quentin Tarantino, Clint Eastwood, Bob Dole |
Canadian stand-up comedian, actor, and writer Norman Gene Macdonald was born on October 17, 1959, and passed away on September 14, 2021.
MacDonald never hesitated to stir up controversy. He famously declared that “murder was now legal in California” following the O.J. Simpson verdict. The Canadian comedian has pondered the possibility that those jokes ultimately resulted in his dismissal.
However, when he said, “What the f___ was that?” in response to his coughing fit, he became the first person since Rocket to use that particular taboo word.