Who are the richest cast members on SNL? List explored

Saturday Night Live, SNL | Image via Instagram/ @nbcsnl
Saturday Night Live, SNL (Image via Instagram/@nbcsnl)

Saturday Night Live (SNL) has launched the careers of several comedians, actors, and writers into the spotlight for almost fifty years. From sketch comedy to big-budget movies, many former cast members of the show have achieved fame and amassed enormous wealth.

Some celebrities found success in Hollywood or corporate ventures, while others used their SNL stardom to launch lucrative stand-up careers. In addition to being comic icons, names like Adam Sandler, Eddie Murphy, and Will Ferrell are multimillionaires and rank amongst the wealthiest SNL cast members ever.

These former cast members have profited from their time on the venerable late-night show, regardless of how long they were there for just a few seasons or several years. Here's a closer look at the wealthiest SNL alumni and how they have amassed their remarkable fortunes over time.


Top 10 cast members on SNL (Saturday Night Live)

Many SNL alumni have created remarkable empires outside of the show, ranging from late-night sketches to full-fledged superstars. These celebrities have earned massive wealth with their comic skills in acting, writing, and producing. The ten richest SNL cast members who benefited from their fame are listed below:

1. Adam Sandler - $440 Million | Tenure: 1990-1995

Sandler, a popular on Saturday Night Live in the 1990s, went on to become a box office success with movies like Grown Ups, Uncut Gems, and The Waterboy. His Happy Madison production firm and Netflix deals keep bringing in revenue.


2. Robert Downey Jr. – $300 Million | Tenure: 1985–1986

Despite having a brief stint on Saturday Night Live, Robert Downey Jr. became one of Hollywood's highest-paid performers. He transformed his career and created an empire from superhero fame.


3. Dan Aykroyd – $250 Million | Tenure: 1975–1979

Aykroyd, a founding member of the SNL ensemble, produced classic sketches and movies such as Ghostbusters and The Blues Brothers. He has earned millions via commercial ventures in addition to acting.


4. Julia Louis-Dreyfus – $250 Million | Tenure: 1982–1985

Julia was developing her comedic skills on Saturday Night Live prior to Seinfeld and Veep. She is among the richest women in comedy thanks to her producer credentials, numerous Emmys, and post-SNL television success.


5. Eddie Murphy – $200 Million | Tenure: 1980–1984

Murphy’s breakthrough on Saturday Night Live helped the star experience a renaissance in the 1980s. He shot to global prominence with films like Coming to America and Beverly Hills Cop.


6. Mike Myers – $200 Million | Tenure: 1989–1995

He successfully transitioned to movies, becoming synonymous with his two creations Wayne Campbell and the eccentric Dieter. He became one of the top comedians in the world after cult and commercial hits like Austin Powers and Shrek.


7. Ben Stiller – $200 Million | Tenure: 1989

Although his time on Saturday Night Live was short-lived, Ben Stiller had great success in Hollywood with comedies such as Meet the Parents and Zoolander. He has also directed and produced several successful motion pictures and television series, further amassing his fortune.


8. Bill Murray – $180 Million | Tenure: 1977–1980

Murray swiftly made the switch to movies after becoming a household star on Saturday Night Live. He was able to establish a remarkable career that lasted for decades; thanks to his roles in Ghostbusters, Groundhog Day, and Lost in Translation.


9. Will Ferrell – $160 Million | Tenure: 1995–2002

Elf, Anchorman, and Step Brothers were among the successful movies that Will Ferrell's recognizable SNL characters generated. In addition, he co-founded the popular humor website Funny or Die and serves as its producer.


10. Dennis Miller – $100 Million | Tenure: 1985–1991

Dennis Miller is best known for hosting Weekend Update. He moved into talk shows and political commentary after his appearance on the show. He has remained in the millionaire range thanks to his media appearances, stand-up tours, and radio broadcasts.


You can watch all the episodes of SNL on NBC and stream them on Peacock.

Edited by Amey Mirashi