Which SNL cast member became the show's announcer after Don Pardo?

Darrell Hammond became Saturday Night Live’s announcer after Don Pardo. Hammond had already spent 14 seasons as an SNL cast member, becoming especially known for impressions of Bill Clinton, Al Gore, Sean Connery, and many other public figures.

Pardo, the show’s longtime announcer, died in August 2014. SNL announced Hammond as his successor in September, and Hammond began the role with the 40th-season premiere. The choice connected two generations of the program: Hammond was a veteran performer who understood the show’s rhythm, while Pardo had been one of its defining voices since the original 1975 season.

Hammond had occasionally impersonated or filled in for Pardo before taking the job. However, executive producer Lorne Michaels reportedly asked him not to imitate Pardo directly. Hammond therefore delivered the introductions in his own voice, establishing a new version of the familiar opening announcement rather than attempting a replica.

The other choices were notable SNL performers, but none succeeded Pardo as the show’s regular announcer.