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Darrell Hammond takes over for Don Pardo on "Saturday Night Live"

A familiar face is taking over for a familiar voice at "Saturday Night Live."

The show announced Thursday that Darrell Hammond, who was a cast member from 1995 to 2009, is its new announcer, replacing the late Don Pardo.

"SNL" names new announcer 01:12

For all but one year of the NBC show's 40-year history, it was Pardo's voice that would announce the host, musical guest and cast members every week, and he continued the job even after he retired to Arizona. Pardo died at age 96 on Aug. 18.

Hammond, known best for his impersonations of President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore on the show, could also approximate Pardo's voice and had the chance to do it.

A handful of times while he was on the show, Pardo wasn't available and Hammond filled in for him. NBC never announced the change, and although a few bloggers may have noticed something different, it wasn't widely known.

Hammond's tenure as "SNL" announcer will begin with the show's 40th season premiere on Sept. 27. "Guardians of the Galaxy" star Chris Pratt is hosting with Ariana Grande as musical guest.

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