The Mix
8 Best Celebrity Cameos on Seinfeld
By Eliza Roth
Sept. 10, 2024
Mister D: I would venture to say that Bette Midler’s part in Seinfeld was more of a guest star role rather than a cameo. Nevertheless, I’m glad they recognized her greatness and included her on this list.
Seinfeld, widely considered one of the greatest sitcoms of all time, is known for its brilliant comedy and characters. It has also featured an impressive lineup of guest stars, from Hollywood stars to famous athletes.
In today’s list, we are counting down the best celebrity cameos on Seinfeld. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the show, these star-studded appearances truly made the show a comedy classic.
Keith Hernandez
First up on our list of celebrity cameos on Seinfeld was Keith Hernandez, the former New York Mets first baseman. He made a memorable guest appearance in the two-part episode “The Boyfriend” during Seinfeld‘s third season.
In the episode, Jerry became friends with Hernandez after meeting him at the gym. He was initially star-struck but later became jealous when Keith also befriended Elaine and asked her out.
The episode is particularly famous for its parody of the film JFK, in which Jerry and Kramer recreated the “magic loogie theory.” This scene is often cited as one of the funniest in Seinfeld history, earning it a place on our list.
Stephen Tobolowsky
Although better known for his role as Ned Ryerson in Groundhog Day, Stephen Toblowsky was another iconic celebrity appearance on Seinfeld. He guest-starred in the Season 2 episode “The Heart Attack,” playing Tor Eckman, a holistic healer.
When George thought he was having a heart attack, Kramer recommended Tor as an alternative to traditional medicine. Tor’s scenes diagnosed George by feeling his face and prescribing a tea of “crampbark” and “couchgrass.” His unique humor added to the classic appeal of Seinfeld comedy.
Teri Hatcher
Another iconic celebrity cameo on Seinfeld was the famous beauty Teri Hatcher. She appeared during a Season 4 episode, “The Implant,” playing Jerry’s girlfriend Sidra.
When Elaine became convinced that Sidra had breast implants, she recruited Jerry to investigate, leading to a series of awkward and hilarious situations. Hatcher’s deadpan delivery and comedic timing perfectly complemented the show’s comedy style.
After Jerry broke up with Sidra, Hatcher delivered the now-famous line, “They’re real, and they’re spectacular!” as she left Jerry’s apartment. Her appearance demonstrated how a well-cast guest star could help create a truly unforgettable moment in sitcom history.
Debra Messing
Next, yet another celebrity cameo on Seinfeld was Debra Messing, who brought her comedic talents to two episodes: “The Wait Out” and “The Yada Yada.” Playing Beth, her performance perfectly captured the show’s knack for finding humor in everyday conversations.
Notably, these appearances came early in Messing’s career, just before her breakout role as Grace Adler in the hit sitcom Will & Grace. Her Seinfeld cameos showcased the charm and comedic timing that later made her a household name.
Rob Schneider
You probably know him from Saturday Night Live, but Rob Schneider also made a memorable cameo in the Seinfeld episode “The Friars Club“. He played Bob, a Friars Club member Jerry encountered in the steam room.
After SNL, Schneider transitioned to film, starring in comedies that became cult classics. He played the title role in Deuce Bigalow: Malge Gigolo. He also appeared in several of my personal favorite Adam Sandler films, including The Waterboy, 50 First Dates, and Big Daddy.
Schneider’s distinct comedic style and willingness to take on outrageous roles have made him a recognizable face in comedy, ultimately, earning him a place on our list.
Bette Midler
Another standout celebrity on Seinfeld was Bette Midler. She appeared in the two-part Season 6 finale, “The Understudy.” Her larger-than-life persona and Broadway credentials added a touch of showbiz to the sitcom.
In this episode, Midler played herself when George injured her in a softball game, sending her to the hospital. Of course, Kramer, a big fan of Midler, helped nurse her back to health. Her rendition of “Rochelle, Rochelle” in the hospital became an instant classic in Seinfeld’s history of iconic pop culture references.
Lori Loughlin
Best known for her role as Aunt Becky on Full House, Lori Loughlin also made a guest appearance on Seinfeld. She guest starred in the Season 8 episode “The Serenity Now.” She played Patty, yet another one of Jerry’s girlfriends, who started to become a problem when she laughed at George’s jokes but not Jerry’s.
Understandably, this drove Jerry to comedic frustration, as he couldn’t understand why his humor failed to amuse her. Loughlin’s natural charm and ability to play off both Jerry and George helped create a memorable dynamic in the episode.
Courtney Cox
Capping our list of the best celebrity cameos on Seinfeld was Courtney Cox. She appeared in the Season 5 episode “The Wife.” Cox played Meryl, another one of Jerry’s girlfriends, who posed as his wife for a dry cleaning discount.
Cox’s appearance was particularly memorable because it coincided with her rising fame on the incredibly popular sitcom Friends. Her chemistry with Jerry and the situation snowballing into chaos made this a standout episode. Ultimately, this iconic cameo cemented her place as one of the series’ most memorable appearances.
