NEW YORK -- The face of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin might be new to the political scene, but it was a familiar one on "Saturday Night Live."

Tina Fey returned to her former stomping ground to portray the Republican vice presidential candidate. The show also welcomed swimmer Michael Phelps as host and included a brief appearance by William Shatner.

There's been a lot of talk about how much Fey resembles Palin. "SNL" executive producer and creator Lorne Michaels said, "The whole world cast her in that role."

The final decision about Fey's return came down to the last minute, apparently.

Fey was a cast member and writer for "SNL" for nine years before leaving in 2006 to star in "30 Rock."