Before he joined Saturday Night Live, Will Ferrell was a relatively unknown improv performer but quickly became a comedy legend. While he was running Saturday Night Live From 1995 to 2002, Ferrell brought audiences memorable characters, incredible line delivery, and quirky physical comedy. From his simple impression of George W. Bush to his recurring role as the disillusioned Alex Trebek, Ferrell used every sketch to showcase his comedic genius.
In this review, we look at Ferrell's 10 greatest SNL moments. Whether you're craving a classic sketch or looking for fan favorites that don't get as much attention, you'll be able to see why Ferrell stands among the SNL greats.
Here are 10 sketches that capture Ferrell's unique comedic chops.
“More Cowbell”
Watch “More Cowbell”
Season: 25
Year: 2000
On “More Cowbell,” the recording goes awry when Ferrell's character threatens to overshadow the rest of the band. The sketch combines Blue Öyster Cult's classic rock vibe with Ferrell's signature antics. He shines as Gene Frankle, the band member who is finally in the spotlight and has no intention of giving it up. With any other cast, “More Cowbell” could have been a memorable sketch, but Ferrell's ill-fitting shirt and manic enthusiasm take it to the next level.
“Celebrity in danger!”
Watch “Celebrity in Peril!”
Season: 22
Year: 1996
Ferrell's foray into the world of Alex Trebek spawned one of the series' most beloved recurring sketches. Since the original aired, SNL has hosted a total of 15 Celebrity Jeopardy! parodies. In the film, Ferrell's Trebek tries to keep Sean Connery, Burt Reynolds and Jerry Lewis in check as they duke it out in witty action – with not very good results. The entire sketch is a shoutout, but we especially love it when Ferrell mutters in frustration, “Rough start for everyone.”
“Spartan Cheerleaders”
Watch Spartan Cheerleaders.
Season: 23
Year: 1997
In “Spartan Cheerleaders,” Will Ferrell and pal Cheri Oteri are portrayed as over-enthusiastic teenagers who try their best to boost team spirit. This recurring sketch debuted in 1995, but “Spartan Cheerleaders Tryout” is the most popular part of the series. Ferrell's infectious laugh and hilarious hip movements are just two reasons why this sketch was loved.
“Dr. Beeman's office: test results”
Watch “Dr. Beeman's Office: Test Results”
Season: 25
Year: 2000
In “Dr. Beeman's Office: Test Results,” Ferrell plays a doctor who must tell a worried couple that he has lost their baby. When he can't figure out how to delay the inevitable, Dr. Beeman delivers the bad news… but Ferrell snaps, causing Molly Shannon to laugh. Famous quotes include: “You all have to shut up!” and “Your son is a witch!”
“The Red Ships of Spain by Robert Goulet”
Watch The Red Ships of Spain by Robert Goulet.
Season: 26
Year: 2001
Robert Goulet's The Red Ships of Spain features Ferrell's spot-on impression of the Canadian-American entertainer best known for his presence on Broadway. Goulet has long been a pop culture figure, appearing in everything from stage productions to late-night television, making him an ideal target for parodies.
As Captain Ferdinand Poncho, Ferrell fully embraces Goulet's incredible performance. His fearless determination, playful exaggeration and deep laugh turn what could have been a simple parody into an unforgettable spectacle. SNL highlight.
“Sensitive Drill Sergeant”
Watch the movie “The Sensitive Drill Sergeant.”
Season: 24
Year: 1998
In “The Sensitive Drill Sergeant,” boot camp gets a little weird when the drill sergeant asks his soldiers for romantic advice. Ferrell alternates between yelling at the recruits and listening to them share their deepest feelings. “Quit and give me 20, you insensitive dog shit!” had us laughing long after the sketch ended.
“Come Out of the Barn”
Watch “Come Out of the Barn”
Season: 21
Year: 1995
In Get Out of the Barn, Ferrell plays a beleaguered father who can't get his kids off the barn roof. No, really. It sounds like a silly premise, but Ferrell shines as a father trying to impress the neighbors while convincing his sons to stop slacking off. At first he asks politely, but then loses his temper. “I'll punch you in the face if you don't come out of the barn!” – Favorite quote of all time.
“Space, the Infinite Frontier: Dr. Kent Wahler”
Watch “Space, the Infinite Frontier: Dr. Kent Wahler”
Season: 24
Year: 1998
“Space, the Infinite Frontier” returns Ferrell to the role of beloved sportscaster Harry Caray. In this episode, Caray is scheduled to interview Dr. Kent Wahler, but the segment quickly gets out of control. Instead of asking reasonable questions, Caray wonders whether Dr. Wahler would eat the moon “if it tasted like barbecued ribs.”
“Reality Stars”
Watch Reality Stars.
Season: 43
Year: 2018
In “Reality Stars,” Ferrell and Cecily Strong play a gorgeous, self-absorbed couple that takes the “Real Housewives” aesthetic to 11. It pokes fun at celebrity culture and image obsession, making it instantly appealing to fans of modern reality TV programming.
Ferrell's appearance – ripped jeans, a bright shirt and bleached blonde locks – deserves a separate Emmy. The sketch is filled with quotable gems, but it's two lines that steal the show: “I should hit you over the head with my dog!” and “We got the most expensive procedure from the cheapest doctor we could find.” Peak parody, peak Ferrell.
“Love Aahs with Barbara and Dave”
Watch “Love Aahs with Barbara and Dave.”
Season: 27
Year: 2001
In “Love A's with Barbara and Dave,” Ferrell and Rachel Dratch play Roger and Virginia Clarvin, two “A' Loves” who are a little too open about their antics. Ferrell has impeccable timing and manages to remain calm throughout most of the sketch – even when Dratch tries to feed him “spice meat” – but eventually breaks down. His mischievous grin is the cherry on top of the hilarious sketch.
