James Franco Does Justin Bieber
It took a shaggy-haired wig, hoodie, and sideways hat to transform James Franco into tween heartthrob Justin Bieber for a parody of the singer’s song “Boyfriend.” (Pretty Little Liars blonde Ashley Benson also sported a dark-haired wig to play Bieber’s on-off flame, Selena Gomez.) Although the single was released over the summer, we’d like to think any parody of Bieber performed by an Academy Award–nominated actor will always be relevant.
Dane Cook Does Tom Cruise
We all remember Tom Cruise’s epic couch-jumping appearance on Oprah, but you may not have seen Dane Cook’s impression of the unforgettable moment. Appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Dane does his best take on Cruise’s outburst, complete with chair jumping and even a bite on the arm of fellow guest Nelly.
Matt Damon Does Matthew McConaughey
As Matt Damon demonstrates, the key to successfully executing a Matthew McConaughey impression is constantly mentioning the need to take off your shirt. Damon’s Southern drawl doesn’t hurt his believability, either.
Kevin Spacey Does Jimmy Stewart
Kevin Spacey is an impersonation pro, as seen in this clip from Inside the Actors Studio, where he takes on acting greats Jimmy Stewart, Al Pacino, and more.
Andy Samberg Does Mark Wahlberg
In a complete non sequitur, Andy Samberg takes on Marky Mark in an SNL skit called “Mark Wahlberg Talks to Animals.” Such brilliance needs no further explanation.
Tina Fey Does Sarah Palin
Quite possibly the most iconic impersonation in SNL history, onetime show regular Tina Fey lent her uncanny resemblance, acting chops, and pantsuits to this interpretation of America’s most meme-able VP candidate.
Justin Timberlake Does John Mayer
There’s something more genuine about a successful singer impersonating another successful singer. Take Justin Timberlake’s spot-on interpretation of John Mayer, complete with a tongue that “takes over his face.”
Taylor Swift Does Shakira
With a one-shoulder dress and a “bump-it” to boot, Swift does her best Shakira impersonation on an SNL skit called “Bunny Hips Don’t Lie.”
Miley Cyrus Does Justin Bieber
Miley Cyrus’s take on the Biebs was an impersonation within an impersonation, Inception style. While she was rocking a short wig—pre-platinum blond shaved locks—purple hoodie, and leather jacket, an SNL regular was impersonating Miley. If you can wrap your head around the multiple false identities, the skit is sure to make you laugh—and appreciate Cyrus’s ability to make fun of herself while dressed like a teenage boy.
Drake Does Lil Wayne
Former Degrassi: The Next Generation cast member and current Top 40 regular Drake wanted to make it perfectly clear that his impersonation of fellow rapper and mentor Lil Wayne meant no disrespect. First he notes that Wayne is one of his idols—and then Drake does a killer impersonation of the grill-wearing singer, finishing with his signature high-pitched laugh.