When it comes to creating memorable characters, the sum of "Seinfeld"'s parts is more than its whole. In fact, the following "Seinfeld" characters have become so familiar to television audiences that the mere mention of their names evokes a smile and a knowing nod.

Bette Midler

Appeared as herself in "The Understudy" episode in which cast members of her Broadway show suspect that George roughed her up during a theater league softball game so that Jerry’s girlfriend (Adelaide Miller) -- who serves as Midler’s understudy -- could have a shot at fame.

Appeared in "The Cadillac" in which she admits to a friend that she prefers men built like George. The Academy Award-winning actress is set up on a date with George, and while Tomei is charmed by him, he must eventually admit that he is engaged.

Keith Hernandez

Appeared in "The Boyfriend" in which Jerry meets the former New York Met All Star (who is one of his favorite baseball players). Jerry soon finds himself competing for his new pal’s time with Elaine, who has caught Keith’s batting eye. More important, Kramer and Newman accuse the ballplayer of spitting on them.

Bryant Gumbel

Made his comedy series debut in "The Puffy Shirt" episode in which Jerry is forced to wear a ridiculous looking pirate shirt during his interview on nationwide television with Bryant Gumbel when he hosted NBC’s Today.

Raquel Welch

Appeared as herself in "The Summer of George" in which Kramer -- a seat-filler at the Tony Awards -- becomes swept up in the moment and accepts a Tony Award. The producers of the Broadway show allow him to keep the prestigious trophy if he is willing to fire their lead actress -- Raquel Welch.

Mel Torme

Appeared as himself in the episode "The Jimmy" in which Kramer lands a prized spot at Torme’s charity concert after his Novocaine-numbed jaw -- the result of a trip to the dentist’s office -- makes him appear mentally challenged.

George Steinbrenner

The back of George Steinbrenner’s head appeared in numerous episodes when George held a job at the Yankees. For each of these appearances, the voice of the baseball owner was provided by series co-creator Larry David (and the cranium was that of actor Lee Bear). Steinbrenner himself made a visit to the stage to film a guest appearance which captured his face and real voice, although the scene never aired.

Marlee Matlin