Black comedians shape Saturday Night Live history

As Saturday Night Live prepares for its 52nd season, the show’s history of Black comedians is being highlighted. Since its premiere in 1975, various performers have broken barriers and shaped the program’s legacy.

Garrett Morris was the first Black cast member, appearing for five seasons. Yvonne Hudson later became the first Black female performer, and Danitra Vance became the first Black woman to serve as a main repertory cast member during the 1985–86 season. Other notable figures include Eddie Murphy, who became a breakout sensation in the 1980s, and Kenan Thompson, who holds the record as the show’s longest-serving cast member.