Top 20 Funniest Sitcom Characters Of All Time

“How I Met Your Mother” (2005-14)

Ted may be the focus of the story, but it’s often Barney’s antics that keeps fans coming back for more. This legendary character gave the show some of its best quips and punchlines during the nine-year run. From Barney’s countless adventures derived from his playbook, to reciting the Bro Code, this is a character that often lifts episodes from mere mediocrity to laugh-out-loud comedy. It’s a character that fans never know what to expect from, and that’s what makes him so awesome. And come on, who doesn’t love seeing Barney cringe whenever Marshall lifts his hand?

"Blackadder" (1983-89)

Always the servant to Edmund Blackadder, Baldrick has come in many flavors. Despite the revolving versions of the character, he always seems to be lacking in the wardrobe department and could probably use a shower. Despite this, he’s been a constant source of comedy since first appearing in “The Black Adder” in 1983. From his obsession with turnips to replacing heads with pumpkins, his oddball wit is one that will strike a laugh in many who happen to catch him on the telly. Given that he always seems to have a plan, we’re sure a couple of laughs are always part of it.

"The Big Bang Theory" (2007-19)

He could have easily been nothing more than the annoying roommate you eventually write off. Yet somehow Sheldon Cooper managed to find a way to make millions of people laugh every week. That humor often centered around the idea that as smart as Sheldon is, he still seems clueless about so many things. As funny as those bits can be, the best Sheldon moments are often seeing his mania in action. “Flash” Sheldon, drunk Sheldon, or even over-caffeinated Sheldon put more laughs on the faces of fans than any of the “fun facts” he’s ever spouted off.

"Schitt's Creek" (2015-20)

Given the long history they have as comedic collaborators, it’s no surprise that Catherine O’Hara hit comedy gold with Eugene Levy’s “Schitt’s Creek.” As Moira, we get to see a character who’s lived a life of privilege knocked down a few pegs. That alone has a draw unto itself. But it’s O’Hara’s comedy chops that make some of Moira’s ridiculous language and mannerisms so funny to watch on screen. It’s made even better when we catch both her and her son David together and we see that same privilege has passed on through to another generation.

"Modern Family" (2009-20)

What father doesn’t want to be the cool dad? Phil Dunphy from “Modern Family” fits the bill perfectly. And in doing so, gives viewers countless chuckles along the way. But it’s not just his attempts to be hip around the children that makes us laugh. It’s Phil’s obliviousness to his use of language that often triggers the giggles, or even gives us a cringe or two. We’ll forgive him for being naive as it’s always played for laughs, and just adds to his unique character. Plus, let’s not forget his aversion to swearing. Who knew sweet potato fries could be funny?

"The Golden Girls" (1985-92)

Take four elderly women and put them in one house and what do you get? A recipe for comedy. Dorothy, Rose, Blanche and Sophia gave us countless laughs over the seven years they were on the air. As funny as they all were, we have to pick Sophia for being the prize when it comes to comedic chops. Her countless comebacks, razor sharp wit, and the ability to tell a great story made her one of the great breakout characters of the era. Who doesn’t love watching a grandma on TV giving everyone the best laughs?

"Frasier" (1993-2004)

When Frasier first appeared on “Cheers,” he came off as a bit of an uppity shrink who seemed to have answers for everything, possibly even giving Cliff a run for his money. But when he spun off to his own show, we got to see far more of the character than we could have expected. Sure, he’s a highly intelligent man, but thanks to a killer cast, we got to see how funny Dr. Crane could really be. The countless debates between him and Niles, and even their father, proved to be one of the highest points of comedy on the show.

"New Girl" (2011-18)

Known merely as Schmidt, this “New Girl” character started off as not much more than a guy who was always paying the douchebag jar. With a bit of an ego, and definitely far too sure of himself, it’s hard to see why anyone in the apartment would ever put up with the likes of him. Yet time and time again, you’ll find yourself laughing at something Schmidt-related. What we love the most though is the Nick & Schmidt comedy duo. Putting the two of them together in some harebrained scheme always brings a roar of laughter.

"Arrested Development" (2003-06; 2013-19)

Being a sufferer of “never nude” syndrome alone gives Tobias a handful of laughs already. Brilliantly played by comedic actor David Cross, Tobias makes us laugh through his mere existence. Between his overt yet unintentional sexual innuendoes in his speech and his obsession with acting, we can’t help but laugh every time he shows up on screen. And between being convinced he’s black or somersaulting anywhere and everywhere, he’s a character that you almost feel guilty laughing at. But the hysterics are just so funny you can’t help yourself. He’s a stark contrast to other characters such as Lucille but is still a gas to watch.

"M*A*S*H" (1972-83)

Even today, “M*A*S*H” still holds the record for the most watched series finale of all time. No one would argue that Hawkeye played a huge part in what drew viewers in. Alan Alda’s portrayal of the sarcastic, wisecracking, prank-pulling surgeon is undoubtedly the glue that holds the show together. The brilliance of this character is in his ability to perform his job yet somehow maintain a sense of levity throughout an otherwise nightmare scenario. And through all of that, not only is he hilarious, but he also gives the show some of its best dramatic moments as well.

"Parks and Recreation" (2009-15; 2020)

Ahhh Leslie. Always the perpetual optimist. Even when the general public is yelling at her, or her superior Ron is telling her no, she still sees the world with rose-colored glasses. We’re not sure if someone being so chipper all the time should be so funny, but given Amy Poehler’s comedic talents, it’s no wonder we love Leslie so much. Despite all of that, some of the best moments come from her being less than her normal self. Whether it’s participating in a drinking contest at work, or wreaking havoc at the library, there’s always a laugh to be had.

"Mork & Mindy" (1978-82)

Okay, do we even have to explain why Robin Williams was awesome on TV? We’re pretty sure it’s fair to say that no one would argue about his comedic brilliance. He was a bull in a china shop that was let loose on any set he worked on. Long before he became a mainstay of film comedy, creator Garry Marshall introduced him to the world through “Mork & Mindy” following the character’s debut on “Happy Days.” Williams played an alien named Mork who is sent to observe human behavior. Given Williams’s uncanny ability to improv, entire sections of the script were often left for him to go on his own, and it always resulted in huge laughs.

"Brooklyn Nine-Nine" (2013-21)

What do “NYPD Blue,” “Hill Street Blues” and “Law & Order” have in common? Sure, they’re all cop shows, but none of them were comedies. “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” has given fans countless laughs and many of those are thanks to Jake Peralta. As perhaps one of the most immature cops ever depicted on television, Jake’s antics amongst his peers seem to know no bounds. Throw in countless acts of name-calling and teasing, and you’re bound to hone in on some great laughs. Much like Martin Riggs of “Lethal Weapon” fame, he’s a fine cop, once you get past the outer psyche.

"Friends" (1994-2004)

Can you envision a world where Chandler Bing is not one of the main characters of “Friends?” It’s true. Matthew Perry’s character was originally supposed to be merely a supporting figure in the show. But thanks to Perry’s comedic chops, the show pivoted and he became a fan favorite. Always ready with a comeback, an aside, or a sarcastic comment, Chandler’s jokes often elevate a mediocre episode into one of pure hilarity. Combine that with the obvious chemistry amongst the cast, and it makes for a memorable character that gives everyone the laugh they needed among friends.

"Curb Your Enthusiasm" (2000-)

What’s more funny: you or a fictionalized version of yourself? In the case of Larry David, the truth might lie somewhere in the middle. Since “Seinfeld's” George Costanza was inspired by David, you’d think the real thing would be just as funny. In a case of art imitating life, David took his own persona and created an even funnier version of it through “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Larry’s complete and total lack of social skills almost compares to that of Sheldon Cooper. Much like Sheldon, it’s Larry’s view of the world that gives us the best comedic moments.

"All in the Family" (1971-79)

Imagine for a moment that Eric Cartman from “South Park” was a grumpy old man who lived in the 1970s. That would be “All in the Family’s” Archie Bunker. A working-class man, Archie is the epitome of the old dad who doesn’t want to change with the times. Carroll O’Connor’s portrayal of this legendary character gave us countless laughs as he yelled at his wife Edith, berated his son-in-law “Meathead,” and argued with his daughter Gloria. The jokes are certainly of the era, but at the time, they brought the house down. Archie’s no-holds-barred approach was a fountain of laughs that kept flowing even through to the follow-up series “Archie Bunker’s Place.”

"Seinfeld" (1989-98)

With the advent of “Seinfeld” coming to Netflix, an entire new generation of people are meeting George Constanza. As a short, overweight, bald man, George is perhaps one of the most unique characters to ever be on television. Based on the show’s aforementioned co-creator Larry David, Costanza’s comedy comes from his incessant self-loathing and insecurity. The laughs often originate from seeing a grown man behave in such a childish manner. Whether he’s shoving others to escape a fire or being oblivious to inappropriate office behavior, his comedic antics often eclipse that of Jerry’s neighbor Kramer.

"The Office" (2005-13)

If there was ever a perfect vessel for Steve Carell, it’s Michael Scott. Playing the head honcho of the Scranton, Pennsylvania branch of the fictional Dunder Mifflin office supply company, Carell spent seven seasons finding laughs in countless quips and bumblings. Forever blaming everyone else for his own shortcomings, he’s a character that always overestimates his relevance and importance, much like Dwight, which is often what garners the most laughs from viewers. Not only does his character tickle the funny bone, he also gave us one of the most memorable catchphrases of the era. Though he didn’t invent it, no one can say “that’s what she said” and not think of Michael from “The Office.”

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

Owned the Greatest Bar in Television History

She Is the Heart & Soul of 30 Rockefeller Plaza

He Has No Problems Telling You as It Is

A High-Pitched Sass No One Would Mess With

We’re Pretty Sure There’s a Little Louie De Palma in There

"I Love Lucy" (1951-57)

For a show that only lasted six years, “I Love Lucy” gave us one of the greatest television characters of all time. Lucy was the queen of comedy for her era. Countless episodes of her antics with Ricky gave way to belly-filled laughter for audiences long after the show ended. From smashing grapes to the memorable conveyor belt scene, there were very few times Lucy didn’t give us the chuckles. She’s the best example of how physical comedy and raw talent combine to give us the best laughs. This kind of character doesn’t come along very often, but we loved Lucy at her best.