‘Saturday Night Live’: Former cast member Darrell Hammond to replace Don Pardo

“Saturday Night Live” has now seemingly checked off its final box prior to its premiere episode in just over a week.

NBC confirmed today that Darrell Hammond, who is currently the longest-tenured cast member ever on the sketch show (though Kenan Thompson could soon give him a run for his money), is set to come aboard as the new announcer. He replaces the legendary Don Pardo, who passed away this summer after decades on the job. He was so beloved that he continued to record the introductions from afar, even in the midst of his retirement.

As for why Hammond was the selection, we assume that his skill with voices plays a part in it. Also, he is already familiar to the brand, and clearly a Lorne Michaels favorite. You don’t stick around for a show almost a decade and a half unless you do have someone out there

We do know already some of the early names that Hammond will announce for the show. Chris Pratt of “Parks and Recreation” / “Guardians of the Galaxy,” is set to host the premiere episode; meanwhile, it was confirmed yesterday that two former cast members in Sarah Silverman and Bill Hader will return for their turns hosting the show in October. Eventually, we do expect some athletes / movie stars / people not so affiliated with the show to come on board. We see this news mostly as “SNL” trying to ease their way into the season, and give you reliable hosts after what was a polarizing year of shows.

What do you think about Hammond’s hire; is he the right choice, or can there really be a right choice given what Pardo brought to the table? Share right now in the comments, and head over here in the event you want further TV updates on all we cover via our CarterMatt Newsletter.

Photo: NBC