From Gilda Radner To Pete Davidson: A Look Back At Iconic SNL Departure Sketches

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Post on May 18, 2025

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From Gilda Radner to Pete Davidson: A Look Back at Iconic SNL Departure Sketches

Saturday Night Live. Just the name conjures images of hilarious sketches, breakout stars, and, inevitably, bittersweet goodbyes. For decades, SNL has served as a launching pad for comedic giants, and their departures often culminate in memorable, sometimes tear-jerking, send-off sketches. From the poignant to the downright bizarre, these sketches offer a fascinating look at the performers themselves and the cultural impact of the show. Let's delve into some of the most iconic SNL departure sketches in history.

The Emotional Goodbyes: A Legacy of Laughter and Tears

Many SNL departures are marked by a tender reflection on the performer's time on the show. These sketches often blend humor and heartfelt emotion, allowing the departing cast member a chance to say goodbye to the audience and their colleagues in a unique and memorable way.

• Gilda Radner's Farewell (1980): Radner's departure remains one of the most iconic and emotionally resonant. Her sketch, though tinged with sadness, celebrated her unique comedic talent and her impact on the show and its legacy. It served as a poignant farewell to a beloved cast member, solidifying her place in SNL history.

• Phil Hartman's Tribute (1994): Following Hartman's tragic passing, SNL aired a touching tribute sketch, highlighting his impressive range and comedic genius. While not a traditional "departure" sketch, it demonstrated the enduring love and respect the show had for its departed cast members. This powerful tribute highlighted Hartman’s lasting contribution to comedy.

• Bill Hader's Stefon's Final Report (2013): Though known for his more outrageous characters, Hader's final appearance as Stefon, the eccentric nightlife reporter, was surprisingly heartfelt. The sketch cleverly intertwined humor with a sincere farewell, allowing Hader to depart on a memorable note, mixing his signature absurdity with a touch of sentimentality.

The Hilariously Unexpected: Departures with a Twist

Not all farewell sketches follow a traditional emotional arc. Some cast members opted for humor-centric send-offs, showcasing their comedic prowess one last time before departing 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

• Pete Davidson's "Weekend Update" Sign-Off (2022): Davidson's departure was marked by a series of typically self-deprecating and hilarious "Weekend Update" appearances. He leaned into his persona, making light of his departure while still expressing gratitude for his time on the show. This approach reflected his unique brand of humor and resonated with his fanbase.

• Dana Carvey's Church Lady's Final Sermon (1993): Carvey, known for memorable characters like the Church Lady, used his final appearance to deliver a hilariously judgmental yet ultimately endearing farewell sermon. This perfectly encapsulates Carvey’s comedic style and his masterful character work. The sketch remains a fan favorite.

The Importance of Departure Sketches in SNL History

These departure sketches are more than just comedic send-offs; they represent a significant part of SNL's cultural tapestry. They offer a unique window into the evolving dynamics of the cast, the changing times, and the show's enduring ability to adapt and innovate. They reflect not only the individual journeys of the departing performers but also the collective memory of the show and its enduring impact on comedy.

What are your favorite SNL departure sketches? Share your thoughts in the comments below!