Top 100 Funniest Actors Of All Time

Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the 100 greatest comedic actors and actresses of all time. We’ll be focusing exclusively on movies and television, not stand-up comics. Comedians have been making us laugh on the big screen and television for over a century. Who have we missed? Let us know in the comments below!

#100: Will Arnett
Will Arnett has built a legendary career in comedy thanks to his trademark wit, deadpan delivery, and instantly recognizable voice. His breakout role as the clueless but cocky Gob Bluth on "Arrested Development" became iconic, earning him critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. Arnett has a unique ability to play self-absorbed, misguided characters who we somehow still want to root for. One of his best roles was as "BoJack Horseman," a washed-up actor and horse. The dark humor belied a surprising and heartbreaking depth. His voice work continued with Lego Batman, a showcase for Arnett's impeccable comedic timing. His versatility, from TV to film to voice acting, sets Will Arnett apart.

#99: Matt Berry
Matt Berry was blessed at birth with a voice that can make the phonebook sound funny. Coupled with his eccentric delivery of dialogue, you have the makings of a comedic icon. In "The IT Crowd" Berry became a favorite as Douglas Reynholm, a bombastic and absurd boss. His genius then began to shine in "Toast of London." His Steven Toast, a washed-up actor, navigates absurdity with hilarious deadpan arrogance. When Berry was cast as Laszlo in "What We Do in the Shadows," he became a sensation. He has the unique ability to deliver mundane lines with completely insane intonations that transform the ordinary into pure hilarity.

#98: Chris Elliott
Chris Elliott has had a remarkable comedy career as the quintessential "that guy from that thing," a journeyman actor whose presence elevates every project he touches. Known for his quirky, offbeat humor, Elliott first gained attention on "Late Night with David Letterman," where his ridiculous sketches made him a cult favorite. He later became a familiar face in "Groundhog Day" and "There's Something About Mary," fleshing out the films with his famously awkward vibe. While not always a leading man, Elliott is a consistent scene stealer in TV shows like "How I Met Your Mother" and "Schitt's Creek." Elliott's enduring appeal lies in his ability to inject an unmistakably weird brand of humor into even the smallest roles.

#97: Kaitlin Olson
Kaitlin Olson has crafted a stellar comedy career, known for her fearless and boundary-pushing performances. She is most well-known as Dee Reynolds on "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia." 'Sweet Dee' is an unapologetically chaotic and self-absorbed character, injecting hilarity straight into the bloodstream of her fans. Olson expertly mixes witty quips with slapstick physical comedy, holding her own within a strong ensemble cast. In addition to her often unhinged live-action roles, Olson's versatility extends to voice work with recurring roles in "Bob's Burgers." Olson's irreverent sense of humor has netted her multiple Emmy nominations and the love of a rabid "It’s Always Sunny" fanbase.

#96: Jason Sudeikis
Jason Sudeikis has had one of the widest ranges of comedic roles of any actor working today. He first gained recognition on "Saturday Night Live," where his ability to play anything from arrogant jerks to clueless everymen made him a standout cast member. Sudeikis transitioned to film with hits like "Horrible Bosses," "We're the Millers," and "The Campaign." He can play absurdity and sincerity with equal aplomb. When he was able to expand his "Ted Lasso" sketch into a full-blown television series, Sudeikis conquered the world's heart. In the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, audiences around the world were soothed by Ted Lasso's goofy optimism. His warmth and kindhearted humor were a balm to a generally terrified viewership.

#95: Rhea Perlman
When it comes to playing prickly characters with a heart of gold, few can do it with as much charm as Rhea Perlman. She became a household name in the 1980s as Carla Tortelli, the fiery and sarcastic waitress on "Cheers." She won four Emmy Awards, securing her place in sitcom history. Perlman’s biting humor set her apart from the rest of the case, giving her scenes a fierce comedic energy. Beyond "Cheers," she continued to shine in both TV and film, with memorable roles in "Matilda," "The Mindy Project," and "Barbie." Perlman’s enduring appeal lies in her tempering a tough exterior with a deep sense of warmth. She's one of the most beloved comedic actors of her generation.

#94: Patrick Warburton
Patrick Warburton is blessed with one of the most recognizable voices in modern film and television. He became a fan favorite as the dim-witted but confident David Puddy on "Seinfeld." His oddball mannerisms and stoic expressions made every scene memorable. Warburton’s comedic brilliance continued in "The Tick," where he played the clueless yet heroic blue-suited superhero. He really came into his own deploying his trademark voice in animation. Starting with Kronk in "The Emperor’s New Groove" and Joe Swanson in "Family Guy," Warburton has become a prolific voice actor. Fans adore his knack for blending warmth with ridiculousness.

#93: Tiffany Haddish
Tiffany Haddish has started the 2020s on a rocket ship to success thanks to her bold, unfiltered humor and electric screen presence. She first made a splash in "Girls Trip," where her wild and hilarious 'Dina' stole the show despite the rest of the star-studded cast. The combination of her crass and outrageous comedy and her relatable vulnerability has made her a household name. Films like "Night School" and "Like a Boss," put her larger-than-life energy front and center. Beyond film, her work on TV shows like "The Last O.G." and her Emmy-winning turn hosting "Saturday Night Live" cemented her legacy. Despite some personal issues in 2022, her future as of 2024 looks bright.

#92: Rick Moranis
Ask any Gen Xer or elder Millennial, and they will happily call Rick Moranis a beloved staple of their childhood. He first gained recognition on the Canadian sketch comedy show "SCTV." There, his brilliant sharp character work stood out and earned him a career in Hollywood. Moranis starred in a string of hit 80's comedies, including "Ghostbusters," where he played the adorably awkward Louis Tully, and "Spaceballs," as the hilariously villainous Dark Helmet. His performances in "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" and "Little Shop of Horrors" showcased his ability to play both the bumbling dad and the quirky underdog. His big heart and gentle humor shone out in his every role. Though he stepped back from acting, Moranis' unforgettable roles continue to resonate.

#91: Cloris Leachman
Cloris Leachman built an extraordinary comedy career that any actor would envy. A beloved figure in film and television, Leachman was utterly fearless. She first gained widespread acclaim on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" as the eccentric and vain Phyllis Lindstrom. Mel Brooks then utilized Leachman’s genius to brilliant effect as Frau Blücher in "Young Frankenstein." Leachman cleaned up at the Emmys in the 1970s and 80s in both comedies and dramas. She spent her matronly years in ridiculous supporting roles in sitcoms and films. Her quirky, unpredictable characters and unapologetic wit were marketable well into her 80s and 90s. Leachman's commitment to her craft and willingness to embrace the outrageous made her an absolute trailblazer.

#90: Dom DeLuise
The history of comedy in Hollywood is one of mentorship, with today's comedy icons learning from those who came before. Mel Brooks, for example, frequently collaborated with younger comedy writers and actors. Few of them were as funny as Dom DeLuise. His infectious energy, larger-than-life persona, and ability to turn any scene into pure laughter made him an instant icon. He worked with Brooks frequently, stealing scenes in "Blazing Saddles," "Silent Movie," and "History of the World, Part I." DeLuise was a slapstick savant, meshing his inherent sweetness with utter chaos. In the mid-1980s, DeLuise lent his voice to classic animated films like "An American Tail" and "The Secret of NIMH."

#89: Jemaine Clement

#88: Natasha Lyonne

#87: David Cross

#86: Jackie Gleason

#85: Redd Foxx
Every once in a while, a comedian makes a huge splash and revolutionizes the world of comedy. Few had as great a groundbreaking impact as Redd Foxx. He first gained fame in the 1960s as a stand-up comedian. His "blue" comedy albums broke taboos and pushed boundaries. He transitioned to television with one of a wave of 1970s-era black sitcoms, "Sanford and Son." His character, the cranky yet lovable Fred, introduced Foxx to both Black and White America. His cantankerous junk dealer won over the country's hearts with catchphrases like "I'm coming, Elizabeth!" He introduced trenchant and biting social commentary through crass humor and slapstick comedy. Foxx’s influence on future Black comedians is immeasurable. He inspired generations with his unapologetic approach to comedy.

#84: Whoopi Goldberg

#83: Michael Cera

#82: Paul Rudd

#81: Carol Kane

#80: Steve Buscemi
Steve Buscemi, once an FDNY firefighter, transitioned into acting and became an unexpected comedic force. Known for his distinct look and offbeat delivery, Buscemi made his mark in films like "Fargo" and "The Big Lebowski." His quirky, nervous energy adds a unique layer to every Steve Buscemi scene. His brilliance is particularly evident in his frequent collaborations with Adam Sandler. His small roles in "Billy Madison" and "The Wedding Singer" were huge highlights in already-successful comedies. On TV, Buscemi showcased his versatility in "30 Rock" as the bizarre private investigator Lenny Wosniak. His unique look has allowed Buscemi to establish a distinctively offbeat brand of dark-yet-vulnerable humor.

#79: Jon Lovitz

#78: Chris Rock

#77: Adam Sandler

#76: John Goodman

#75: Betty White
Betty White had one of the greatest careers in the history of Hollywood, spanning more than seven decades. Famously older than sliced bread, White died as an icon at 99. She had the singular ability to be both incredibly sweet and wildly sassy. White’s earlier work on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show" as the sharp-tongued Sue Ann Nivens showed her ability to master both innocence and cunning. She finally - and deservedly - became a household name with her portrayal of the lovable, naive Rose Nylund on "The Golden Girls." White collaborated with Bea Arthur, who played the sarcastic and strong-willed Dorothy Zbornak. Arthur, a legend in her own right, brought gravitas and wit to the show, perfectly complementing White’s lighthearted humor.

#74: Jean Smart

#73: Seth Rogen

#72: Eric Idle

#71: Jack Black

#70: Danny McBride
When it comes to playing characters who are equal parts hilariously overconfident and broken, nobody can compete with Danny McBride. In 2006, he broke onto the scene with his role in "The Foot Fist Way," a low-budget comedy that showcased his knack for blending unearned arrogance with sheer insanity. That singular voice found even wider acclaim on HBO's "Eastbound & Down," where he played the egotistical and foul-mouthed ex-baseball player Kenny Powers. His work in movies like "Pineapple Express," "Tropic Thunder," and "This Is the End" further demonstrated his fearlessness in embracing the absurd. In "The Righteous Gemstones," McBride continues to push boundaries as the greedy, hypocritical son of a televangelist.

#69: Glenn Howerton

#68: Amy Poehler

#67: Sid Caesar

#66: Vince Vaughn

#65: Leslie Nielsen
There are comedy actors, and then there are comedy legends. Leslie Nielsen firmly falls into the latter category. Starting as a dramatic character actor, Neilson found his second act in comedy. In "Airplane!," his straight-faced performance as Dr. Rumack turned every line into comedic gold. He took that vibe and ran with it. A master of the deadpan delivery in the middle of an absurd world, Nielsen was a serious face with a silly soul. He helped usher in the resurgence of slapstick comedy in the 1970s and 80s. Nielsen's role as the bumbling detective Frank Drebin in "The Naked Gun" series solidified his place in comedy history. His ability to deliver ridiculous dialogue with unwavering sincerity became his signature move.

#64: Ryan Reynolds

#63: Kathryn Hahn

#62: Eugene Levy

#61: Bill Hader

#60: Tracey Ullman
Observational humor and impressions have been cornerstones of modern comedy since the 1950s. Few have mastered both with the level of precision and incisiveness like Tracey Ullman. It began with "The Tracey Ullman Show." Her ability to embody a wide range of characters made her an impressionist savant. While the show jump-started "The Simpsons," Ullman’s performances were the main attraction. She seamlessly shifted from outrageous to heartfelt at will. Her character-driven comedy continued with "Tracey Takes On…," earning her multiple Emmys. Ullman’s gift for impersonation and satire continued in "Tracey Ullman’s Show," where her takes on public figures were sharp and hilarious. Her fearless, chameleon-like approach to comedy has made her one of the most inventive and enduring talents in the industry.

#59: Fred Armisen

#58: Jane Lynch

#57: Simon Pegg

#56: Albert Brooks

#55: Mike Myers
Since 1975, "Saturday Night Live" has been a vessel for multiple generations of comedy actors to launch into superstardom. In the 1990s, it was Mike Myers' turn. His character work there proved that Myers was a chameleon and a master of both sarcasm and the absurd. Myers found success when his “SNL” sketch "Wayne’s World" became a pair of successful films. When he followed them up with "Austin Powers," his career took off like a rocket and he was catapulted to international fame. He played multiple characters with a mix of slapstick humor and sharp parody. His voice work, too, met with unparalleled levels of success when his lovable green ogre in "Shrek" generated multiple sequels, a Broadway musical, and billions at the box office.

#54: Jerry Stiller

#53: Andy Samberg

#52: Lily Tomlin

#51: Maya Rudolph

#50: Sacha Baron Cohen
It's rare in the comedy world for an actor to bring something new to the table. Enter Sacha Baron Cohen, a comedian who has redefined modern comedy. His fearless, boundary-pushing approach to character work has challenged social norms and political correctness. His outrageous humor delivers a healthy dose of sharp social commentary. Cohen first gained fame in the U.K. with "Da Ali G Show. " His alter egos - Ali G, Borat, and Brüno - conducted biting and satirical interviews that exposed the absurdities of his subjects. He then took Borat to the big screen, becoming a global phenomenon. He continued this provocative style in films like "Brüno" and "The Dictator," using comedy to explore uncomfortable truths about politics, fame, and culture.

#49: Ben Stiller

#48: Jason Alexander

#47: Catherine O'Hara

#46: Stan Laurel & Oliver Hardy

#45: Danny DeVito
Danny DeVito is one of those actors who can do anything. Heartfelt dramas, silly comedies - none are beyond his abilities. He did, however, find a niche for himself in comedy, with decades of shows and films under his belt. Despite his diminutive stature, his characters tend to be quirky and larger-than-life. DeVito's success began in the 1970s with Louie De Palma on "Taxi." The short-tempered, scheming cab dispatcher earned him an Emmy. In the 80s and 90s, DeVito kept the momentum going with movies like "Twins," "Batman Returns," and "Get Shorty." Modern audiences, though, know Danny DeVito as Frank Reynolds on "It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia." Frank is a depraved lunatic whose hilarious antics have delighted audiences for nearly twenty years.

#44: Mary Tyler Moore

#43: Dana Carvey

#42: Jack Lemmon

#41: Phil Hartman

#40: Bud Abbott & Lou Costello
Abbott and Costello became one of the most iconic comedy duos in history, pioneering silly-but-intellectual humor layered into more traditional slapstick. They skyrocketed to fame in the 1940s with their legendary routine "Who’s on First?" which remains one of the most famous comedy sketches of all time. Their success extended to radio, film, and television, with films like "Buck Privates," "Hold That Ghost," and "Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein." Their slapstick vibe meshed with fast-paced banter set the standard for comedic partnerships. Abbott’s straight-man role perfectly complemented Costello’s bumbling, childlike persona, creating a dynamic that brought out the best in both. Whether in classic vaudeville routines or monster movie spoofs, Abbott and Costello's chemistry made them a timeless force still lauded today.

#39: Jerry Lewis

#38: Madeline Kahn

#37: Melissa McCarthy

#36: Dan Aykroyd

#35: John Cleese

John Cleese is a towering figure in British comedy, known for his sharp wit and intellectual humor. He first made his mark with "Monty Python’s Flying Circus," where he and fellow Python members like Graham Chapman and Michael Palin created groundbreaking, surreal sketches that reshaped television comedy. Cleese’s deadpan delivery in classics like "The Ministry of Silly Walks" and "The Dead Parrot" sketch became instant classics. Chapman, often Cleese’s writing partner, had a brilliant knack for absurdity, while Palin’s warm, likable persona balanced Cleese’s more cutting style. Cleese went on to star in and co-write "Fawlty Towers," playing the bumbling and irritable hotel owner Basil Fawlty. His work in films like "A Fish Called Wanda" further cemented his legacy as an all-time great.

#34: Chevy Chase

#33: Kevin Hart

#32: Jennifer Coolidge

#31: Kristen Wiig

#30: Julia Louis-Dreyfus
In some jurisdictions, leaving Julia Louis-Dreyfus off this list could be considered a criminal offense. Her trademark idiosyncratic and off-beat vibe was incredibly relatable to modern audiences. She is both a master of physical comedy and dry wit, making her characters incredibly endearing - even when they're terrible people. Louis-Dreyfus was first showered with both critical and audience praise as Elaine on "Seinfeld." "The New Adventures of Old Christine" continued to put her neurotic brand of humor front and center. Though she continued in a variety of roles, she reached the apex of stardom as Selina Meyer on “Veep.” She won Emmys year after year for her portrayal of the fabulously cunning and ruthless politician.

#29: John C. Reilly

#28: Henry Winkler

#27: Kate McKinnon

#26: John Belushi

#25: Mel Brooks
Surpassing legendary status, Mel Brooks is a comedy god. He first made waves as a writer for "Your Show of Shows" and, within a few years, went on to create some of the most seminal films in comedy history. His directorial debut, "The Producers," became a groundbreaking hit and - eventually - a Broadway sensation. Brooks followed it with classics like "Blazing Saddles" and "Young Frankenstein," where he expertly lampooned Westerns and horror films. His ability to mix slapstick, wit, and satire made his work timeless, appreciated by one generation after another. Even later films like "Spaceballs" and "Robin Hood: Men in Tights" maintained his signature comedic style.

#24: Andy Kaufman

#23: Nathan Lane

#22: Steve Carell

#21: Rowan Atkinson

#20: Bill Murray
Bill Murray’s wit is so dry, you need moisturizer for your soul after watching him. Murray joined the cast of "Saturday Night Live" in 1977 where he immediately stood out as a comedic force. It didn't take long for his career to launch into the stratosphere. Films like "Caddyshack," "Ghostbusters," and "Groundhog Day," allowed him to show off his character work and trademark blend of wry humor with easy charm. Murray's subtle sarcasm allowed him to make even giant bastards completely relatable. As he aged, Murray evolved and began to choose more offbeat roles in films like "Rushmore" and "Lost in Translation." Whether we're talking Murray classic or the dapper older gentleman, his filmography has something for everyone.

#19: Tina Fey
Tina Fey is a perfect example of how some of the best comedians are also the smartest. Her scathing repartee is the stuff of legend. She became “SNL's” first female head writer in 1999 and joined the cast as a “Weekend Update” anchor the following year. Fey’s writing genius took center stage on "30 Rock," a sitcom loosely based on her experiences at “SNL.” Her portrayal of Liz Lemon was a cultural touchstone while the show was on the air. In film, Fey's talents shone bright with hits like "Mean Girls," which she also wrote, and "Date Night." With her deep roots at “SNL,” Fey has been discussed as a potential replacement for Lorne Michaels when he retires.

#18: Martin Short
Martin Short has built an extraordinary comedy career off of his madcap, infectious energy. His ability to transition between live performances, sketch comedy, and film has kept him beloved by fans for decades. Short's big start - as with many Canadian comedians of his generation - was on "SCTV." His ridiculous character work earned him a spot on "Saturday Night Live." After only a year, he pivoted to Hollywood where, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Short made a name for himself. Films like "Three Amigos" and "Father of the Bride" showcased his versatile yet wacky brand of comedy. In recent years, he has partnered up with his old pal Steve Martin as well as Selena Gomez in "Only Murders in the Building."

#17: Richard Pryor
Richard Pryor was the kind of comedian revered by other comedians. Jon Stewart once said he, George Carlin, and Lenny Bruce were the 'holy trinity' of stand-up. Pryor was utterly fearless, tackling race, social issues, and personal experiences with raw, savage honesty. His comedy albums and live performances are considered some of the best in history. Pryor’s film career was equally impressive. Films like "Silver Streak" and "Stir Crazy," brought the topics from his stand-up act to the silver screen. His frequent collaborations with Gene Wilder created one of the greatest comedic duos of all time. Pryor’s impact on both comedy and society at large is immeasurable, as he pushed boundaries and opened doors for future generations of comedians.

#16: John Candy
John Candy was a king of 1980s comedy films. His warmth and charm suffused every scene. Starting out on "SCTV," Candy stood out - even among an all-star cast. His wide range of characters showcased his talent for slapstick and subtle intellectual comedy. Candy's film career quickly took off. His roles in "Stripes," "Splash," and "The Great Outdoors," were unforgettable. Still, it was his performances in "Planes, Trains and Automobiles" and "Uncle Buck" that cemented his status as a comedy legend. His gift for blending silly and sometimes crass humor with gallons of heart made Candy a comedy darling. He could make you laugh and cry simultaneously. His silly characters often used humor to mask a deep well of pain and sadness.

#15: Billy Crystal
The 1984-85 cast of “SNL” was known as the all-stars, with members like Christopher Guest, Martin Short, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, and, of course, Billy Crystal. His characters - like Fernando with his infamous catchphrase, "You look marvelous!" - made Crystal a fan favorite. His vaudeville-inspired style and his one-liners formed a type of humor with decades of longevity. Crystal quickly transitioned to films. "When Harry Met Sally…" is still considered to be one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time. His later hits like "City Slickers," "Analyze This," and "Monsters, Inc." are classics that helped solidify Crystal as a king of comedy. His multiple hosting gigs at the Oscars were widely considered the best iterations of the awards show.

#14: Chris Farley
One measure of an actor and comedian is the way their colleagues talk about them. By that measure, few comedy actors were as loved as Chris Farley. Farley was like a humor tornado, a whirlwind of energy, physicality, and pure distilled joy. On “SNL,” his characters were utterly unforgettable from his infamous Chippendales sketch to the overzealous motivational speaker Matt Foley. His gut-busting performances were instant classics. Farley’s larger-than-life personality transitioned seamlessly to film, with starring roles in "Tommy Boy" and "Black Sheep." His slapstick genius and lovable buffoonery were a perfect fit for the mid-nineties. His fearless approach to comedy - throwing himself into every scene, often literally - made him a one-of-a-kind talent.

#13: Gilda Radner
As you can probably tell by now, sketch shows like "SCTV" and "Saturday Night Live" were fertile ground for cultivating the best comedy talent. To that end, it's telling that Gilda Radner was the first person ever cast on "SNL." Her brilliance was undeniable, like a force of nature. Radner’s characters like the mischievous Roseanne Roseannadanna and the clueless Emily Litella were 1970s staples. Whether playing lovable weirdos or nailing spot-on impressions, she was bold yet sensitive in her every role. Radner’s radiant energy lit up the stage and made her a trailblazer for women in comedy. Her work in the one-woman show "Gilda Live" further solidified her status as a comedic powerhouse.

#12: Gene Wilder
Gene Wilder gave a masterclass in controlled chaos in every performance where manic energy met heartfelt sincerity. He had a gift for playing characters on the brink - whether it was the nervous accountant in "The Producers" or the unhinged scientist in "Young Frankenstein." Wilder had a way of making the absurd seem perfectly natural, delivering frantic outbursts with a calm intensity that made them hilarious. In "Blazing Saddles," his deadpan humor provided a perfect counterpoint to the film’s madness. In "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," his enigmatic, unpredictable performance was the stuff of cinematic legend. It was a foundational film for many Gen Xers and elder millennials. His comedy was wild and nuanced, creating unforgettable, endearing characters that still resonate today.

#11: The Marx Brothers
The Marx Brothers revolutionized comedy with their rapid-fire wit, physical gags, and anarchic humor. Groucho, with his biting sarcasm and quick one-liners, was the ringleader. Harpo’s silent, chaotic mischief and Chico’s playful conman routine added layers to their unique brand of madness. Their films, like "Duck Soup" and "A Night at the Opera," turned traditional plots on their head, favoring absurdity over sense. The brothers thrived on disorder, often disrupting every scene with relentless wordplay, slapstick, and total disregard for authority. Their comedy was pure, unfiltered mayhem. Whether it was Groucho's snappy insult, Harpo’s wild antics, or Chico's ridiculous accents, they left audiences in stitches. Together, the Marx Brothers crafted a legacy of irreverence that still influences comedians today.

#10: Will Ferrell
Will Ferrell's comedy career is a patchwork of outrageous characters, absurd scenarios, and unrestrained energy. He first forged his reputation on "Saturday Night Live," where he first established his insane impersonations and larger-than-life personas. Ferrell’s signature style blends over-the-top physicality with a childlike innocence, creating a comedic dichotomy that’s irresistibly funny. By the start of the 2000s, Ferrell had begun to make a name for himself in Hollywood. Characters like the infamous Mugatu in "Zoolander," set him apart. Smash hits like "Anchorman" and "Step Brothers" are still considered some of the funniest films ever made. His hilariously quotable dialogue and unforgettable moments continue to entertain viewers years later.

#9: Steve Martin
Steve Martin’s decades-long career is a dazzling brew of clever banter, absurdity, and a touch of surreality. He initially captivated audiences as a stand-up, combining playful one-liners and whimsical quips. He would often wear a signature white suit and play the banjo. Martin’s films, like "The Jerk" and "Planes, Trains and Automobiles," highlight his knack for playing lovable misfits. His humor often straddles the line between the ridiculous and the profound. "Father of the Bride" is the prime example, where he navigates the chaos of parenthood with both hilarity and pathos. Martin has a unique ability to balance slapstick wackiness with brilliant insights into the everyday human condition.

#8: Buster Keaton
Buster Keaton redefined comedy in the era of silent films. He seemed to have perfect mastery over his own body, engaging in death-defying stunts for brilliant comedic effect. Known as "The Great Stone Face," Keaton's ability to maintain a serious expression amidst utter madness made his humor all the more striking. Films, like "The General" and "Sherlock Jr.," feature his innovative use of visual gags, elaborate stunts, and breathtaking slapstick that bewildered awestruck audiences. Keaton's characters frequently found themselves in absurd predicaments, yet his unwavering composure only heightened the hilarity. His meticulous attention to detail and clever storytelling set a high standard in filmmaking, influencing generations of filmmakers and performers.

#7: Carol Burnett
If the gods of comedy distilled pure brilliance and poured it into a human mold, that person is Carol Burnett. "The Carol Burnett Show" is easily one of the smartest sketch comedies in television history. Burnett captivated audiences for over a decade thanks to a perfect cocktail of satire and slapstick. Her style is characterized by seamless transitions from uproarious physical comedy to poignant storytelling. Her expressive face was always front and center in her bits, letting the audience in on the jokes even when other characters were not. Tim Conway, her longtime collaborator, brought a unique brand of silliness that perfectly complemented Burnett’s exuberance. Their unforgettable sketches, like the dentist skit, remain iconic. Together, they created a comedic chemistry that left audiences in stitches.

#6: Peter Sellers
Peter Sellers was a chameleon - he could inhabit virtually anyone and adopt any personality. He is most well known for his multiple turns as Inspector Clouseau in "The Pink Panther" film series. There, his genius for physical comedy was on full display, a perfect mixture of farce and bumbling charm. Sellers also excelled in satire. His film "Dr. Strangelove," where he portrayed multiple roles, is arguably one of the smartest comedies ever produced. His performances often straddled the line between being deeply human and utterly ridiculous, revealing a profound understanding of human nature. Whether he was playing a hapless detective or a sinister doctor, Sellers’s fearless commitment to his characters created unforgettable moments.

#5: Eddie Murphy
Like many - if not most - of the best comedians, Eddie Murphy got his start in stand-up. His specials, particularly "Delirious" and "Raw," tackled taboo subjects like race using razor-sharp observational humor and dynamic storytelling. Murphy's comedic genius lies in his engaging delivery, vibrant characterizations, and unapologetic authenticity. After a few years on “SNL,” Murphy became a full-blown movie star. Films like "48 Hours," "Beverly Hills Cop," and "The Golden Child" made Murphy the first name in 80s action comedy. He leaned more on his character work in "Coming to America" and "The Nutty Professor" where he embodied multiple characters. Eddie Murphy's influence continues to resonate, making him one of the most memorable comedic talents in entertainment history.

#4: Charlie Chaplin
In the early days of cinema, Charlie Chaplin discovered quickly that he could instill wide versatility in a single character, the Tramp, across multiple projects. His mischievous charm captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. In the silent era, physical comedy was king and Chaplin was its master. Still, even as film evolved into 'the talkies,' Chaplin managed to survive when others could not. He incorporated trenchant social commentary into his routine, resonating with audiences during a tempestuous time in history. His style combined slapstick with emotive characters, often addressing themes of poverty and resilience. Chaplin's performances were a delicate dance of graceful movement and exaggerated gestures, leaving audiences both laughing and reflecting. His fearless creativity and innovation set the standard for a century of comedians.

#3: Lucille Ball
Lucille Ball redefined what it meant to be funny on TV. "I Love Lucy" was an immaculate vehicle for her extraordinary talent and magnetic presence. For years, her farcical humor and expressive face captivated living rooms across America. She had an uncanny ability to transform everyday situations into pure comedic gold. Routines like the infamous chocolate factory scene have resonated for decades after they aired. Her work with Desi Arnaz, to whom she was married in real life, brought a dynamic chemistry and authenticity to their performances, creating a timeless comedic duo. Together, they pushed the boundaries of sitcom storytelling, making relatable family dynamics funny. Lucille Ball's influence on comedy is indelible, leaving an enduring mark on television history.

#2: Jim Carrey
Jim Carrey is less a person and more a force of nature. Known for his outrageous antics and expressive physicality, Carrey's improvisational genius and commitment to his roles bring a dynamic energy that leaves viewers in stitches. His early films like "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective" and "The Mask" centered on his physicality, representing the absolute pinnacle of 90s-era slapstick. He could almost physically morph his body into wildly eccentric characters, like the Grinch. Films like "The Truman Show" and "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" Carrey showed the world that he wasn't just a silly one-trick pony. He was actually a well-rounded actor who could do comedy and drama with an equal measure of skill.

#1: Robin Williams
Even in his early work on "Mork & Mindy," it was clear that Robin Williams was no ordinary comedian. At will, he could shift from a whirling dervish of manic energy to a sad clown masking his broken heart with a patina of silliness. His style was a one-of-a-kind mix of whimsy and heartfelt sincerity, setting the stage for a career filled with unforgettable moments. In films like "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Good Morning, Vietnam," Williams effortlessly transitioned between outrageous humor and poignant storytelling. His talent for creating vivid characters - from the zany genie in "Aladdin" to the introspective therapist in "Good Will Hunting" - highlighted his ability to connect with audiences on every level.