Iconic Saturday Night Live alum Kate McKinnon recently reignited fan discussions by crowning NBA legend and frequent SNL host Charles Barkley as ‘the funniest man alive,’ reflecting on their memorable and hilariously awkward ‘Last Call’ sketch and his exceptional comedic prowess on the show.
Even years after her departure from Saturday Night Live in May 2022, comedic powerhouse Kate McKinnon continues to delight fans with behind-the-scenes revelations from her illustrious tenure on the iconic sketch comedy show. In a recent conversation with fellow SNL alum Amy Poehler, McKinnon shared a surprising pick for her favorite guest host, a revelation that has set the fan community abuzz.
During the October 28 episode of Poehler’s Good Hang with Amy podcast, McKinnon, known for her deadpan delivery, declared 62-year-old legendary NBA pro Charles Barkley as potentially “the funniest man alive.” The comment stems from her direct experience working alongside Barkley during his numerous appearances on the show, highlighting the unique comedic chemistry they shared.
Kate McKinnon’s SNL Legacy and Charles Barkley’s Enduring Impact
Kate McKinnon, born Kathryn McKinnon Berthold on January 6, 1984, joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in April 2012. Throughout her decade-long run, she became a fan favorite, celebrated for her chameleon-like ability to embody a vast array of characters and her memorable impressions of public figures like Hillary Clinton, Kellyanne Conway, and Elizabeth Warren. Her exceptional talent earned her two Emmy Awards in 2016 and 2017 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, solidifying her place as an SNL icon, as recognized by Emmys.com.
On the other side of the comedic coin, Charles Barkley boasts an impressive SNL history himself, having hosted the show four times (1993, 2010, 2012, and 2018) and making a guest appearance during an SNL at Home episode in April 2020. His reputation for being an uninhibited and willing participant in sketches, especially those involving self-deprecating humor, has made him a beloved figure among the cast and crew. As he once famously admitted, he’s “willing to try anything” on the comedy show, including “making fun of himself,” a sentiment captured in a NBC Miami report.
This willingness to fully commit is precisely what makes Barkley a standout. Fellow SNL alum David Spade echoed this sentiment in a 2025 podcast episode, describing Barkley as “great” and “a lot of fun” on the show, a fact that resonates with fans and cast members alike.
The Unforgettable ‘Last Call’ Sketch
One of the most talked-about collaborations between Kate McKinnon and Charles Barkley was their 2018 “Last Call” sketch. In this memorable segment, they portrayed two cringe-worthy bar patrons attempting to arrange a hookup during closing hours. The sketch pushed comedic boundaries with awkward pickup lines and an uncomfortably intimate moment that involved the two making out while wearing lip retractors.
Recalling the experience on Poehler’s podcast, McKinnon humorously shared, “I did do one of my barfly sketches with him, so his tongue has been in my mouth… and I… it was nice.” This particular anecdote, as reported by Parade, perfectly encapsulates the kind of fearless, boundary-pushing comedy that both McKinnon and Barkley brought to the SNL stage.
Why Barkley Continues to Captivate SNL Fans
The fan response to McKinnon’s high praise for Barkley has been mixed but largely positive, reflecting the former NBA star’s unique charm. Many commenters agree that Charles Barkley is “effortlessly funny,” appreciating his natural comedic timing and self-deprecating humor that transcends his athletic background. This ability to be both a sports icon and a comedic force is what makes his SNL appearances so consistently entertaining.
McKinnon’s sentiment sheds light on the rare alchemy that occurs when a guest host not only embraces the comedic chaos of SNL but genuinely elevates it through their personality and willingness to dive into any sketch. Barkley’s repeated success on the show, and his specific comedic chemistry with performers like McKinnon, ensures his place as one of the most memorable non-comedian hosts in SNL history.
For dedicated fans of Saturday Night Live, these behind-the-scenes glimpses into the show’s creative process and the bonds formed between cast members and hosts are invaluable. They underscore the enduring legacy of SNL as a platform where unexpected comedic magic can happen, leaving us with hilarious stories and unforgettable sketches for years to come.
