20 Best Comedy Actors of All Time

In the comedy world, where laughter is the universal language, a select group of actors have mastered spinning tales of humour and weaving rib-tickling stories that have captivated audiences. These best comedy actors are the architects of fun, the conduits of comedy, and the keepers of joy, and they grace the stage and the screen with their limitless wit and precise timing.

Venture into the comedy world, and you will find legends who have carved their names into the annals of laughter, setting the standard for future generations. From the iconic clown of silent films to the unrivalled innovators of contemporary improv, each actor has a distinct brand of humour that distinguishes them from the rest.

20 Best Comedy Actors In The World:

These best comedy actors are masters of physical comedy, contouring their bodies and gestures to elicit laughter from the depths of the audience. With a perfect blend of spontaneity and precision, their razor-sharp wit cuts through the monotony of everyday life, providing us with humour in the purest form.

1. Jim Carrey:

Jim Carrey is a comedic genius and one of Hollywood’s most beloved actors. He has captivated audiences worldwide with his ability to transform laughter into art. Jim Carrey was born on the 17th of January, 1962, in North Bay, Ontario, Canada. At a young age, he found humour and used it to cope with life’s difficulties.

In the 1990s, Carrey entered the comedy scene with his elastic facial expressions and physicality. He starred in blockbusters such as “Pet Detective: Pet Detective,” “The Mask,” and “Dumb & Dumber.”

With a gift for mimicking and the ability to effortlessly switch between outlandish characters, he established himself as an expert in slapstick and verbal humour.

But it wasn’t just comedic roles that captivated audiences. Carrey’s career took off in the late 1990s and early 2000s when he starred in dramatic films such as “The Truman Show” (1999) and “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2000).

These films earned him critical acclaim and cemented his status as a versatile actor. He is one of the best comedy actors of all time.

2. Steve Carell:

Steve Carell is one of comedy’s most beloved and talented actors. His timing, charm, and versatility are second to none. Carell was born in Concord, MA, on the 16th of August, 1962. He began his career as a correspondent for the late-night talk show,

“The Daily Show,” where he refined his wit and comedic genius. Carell’s big break came with “The Office,” playing Michael Scott, the mischievous yet endearing office manager.

His performance earned him millions of viewers, multiple Emmy nominations, and a devoted fan base. Carell has also starred in comedies such as “Anchorman,” “The 45th” and “Date Night,” and dramatic films such as “Foxcatcher,” as well as “Little Miss Sunshine” to name a few.

Carell has continued to take on difficult roles and leave a lasting impression on audiences. He has also ventured into the world of producing and writing.

3. Tina Fey:

Tina Fey is a comedic icon, a trailblazer, and a creative genius. She has made a lasting impact on the comedy world, both on and off the screen. Tina Fey was born on the 18th of May, 1970, near Upper Darby in Pennsylvania.

She began her career as a performer and head writer on “Saturday Night Live.” She was the first woman head writer in “SNL’s” history. Her wit, characters, and sense of humour, mixed with social commentary, made her stand out and captivate viewers.

She went on to create, write, and star in the critically-acclaimed sitcom “30 Rock.” Based on her experiences on “SNL,” “30 Rock” showcases her exceptional writing skills and comedic timing. She went on to win multiple Emmy Awards for her work on the show.

In addition to television, Tina has also starred in and written for successful films such as “Mean Girls” and “Baby Mama.” Her unique combination of humour, intellect, and “relatable” appeal to viewers of all ages.

4. Melissa McCarthy:

Melissa McCarthy is an actress, singer-songwriter, and the best female comedy actor. She is a force to be reckoned with regarding energy, timing, and creating unforgettable characters.

Melissa McCarthy was born on the 26th of August, 1970, to an Illinois family. She grew up in Plainfield. She began her career in television, starring in the beloved show “Gilmore Girls”. Her comedic charm and warm personality shone brightly.

But it wasn’t until she starred in “The Bridesmaids” that she achieved stardom. She was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance, making her one of the first leading ladies in comedy to win an Academy Award.

She is known for seamlessly transitioning from physical comedy to emotional comedy. From “The Heat” to “Spy”, “Ghostbusters” and “The Boss”. She’s also known for her dramatic ability, which has earned her critical acclaim.

5. Will Ferrell:

Will Ferrell (born July 16, 1967) is a comedian who has forever captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with his irreverent humor and commitment to absurdity? He began his career in improv comedy, but it wasn’t until he was cast as George W. Bush on “Saturday Night Live” that he truly found his comedic calling. His time on “SNL” established him as one of the show’s most popular cast members.

He then went on to star in several successful comedies, from “Anchorman” to “Talladega,” “Ballad of Ricky Bobby” and “Step Brothers.” Ferrell’s zany humour, fearlessness, and natural charm, combined with his impeccable timing, made him a comedy icon for generations to come.

6. Amy Poehler:

Amy Poehler is an actress, comedian, writer, producer, and director. She has captivated audiences with her contagious energy, sharp wit, and pioneering contributions to the comedy world. Poehler was born on the 16th of September, 1971, near Newton, Massachusetts.

She began her career as an improv and sketch comedian. She worked her way up to cast member on “Saturday Night Live,” where she played iconic characters such as the bubbly Kaitlin and her memorable impersonation of Senator Hillary Clinton.

Her time on “SNL” earned her a place among the show’s most talented performers, but it wasn’t until she joined the cast of the critically-acclaimed sitcom “Parks And Recreation” that she truly burst onto the comedy scene.

Her portrayal of the bubbly, optimistic public servant Leslie Knope has earned her millions of fans and countless award nominations. In addition to her acting, she has also co-founded and produced several successful television shows and movies through her own production company (Paper Kite Productions).

7. Bill Hader:

Bill Hader is a multi-talented actor, comedian, and impressionist. He was born on the 7th of July, 1978, near Tulsa, Oklahoma. Hader’s career began on “Saturday Night Live”, where he was a cast member and quickly gained fame for his comedic timing and hilarious celebrity impressions.

During his time on “SNL,” Hader played various characters, including Weekend Update correspondent Stefon, who was known for his “quirky nightclub recommendations.” His versatility as an actor and gift for creating unique and hilarious characters earned him critical praise and a loyal following.

In addition to “SNL”, Hader has had a successful career in film and TV, starring in movies like “Superbad,” “Knocked Up,” and “Trainwreck.”

He also showed his dramatic side in projects like “The Skeleton Twins” and HBO’s “Barry,” where he co-created, co-wrote, and served as an executive producer. His comedic genius lies in the ability to seamlessly blend outrageous humour with nuanced emotional depth, which makes each character stand out.

8. Kristen Wiig:

Kirsten Wiig is a comedic genius and actress who has captured the hearts of audiences with her exceptional comedic timing, contagious humour, and unique ability to bring a wide variety of characters to life on screen.

Born Kristen Wiig on the 22nd of August, 1973, in Canandaigua, New York City, she began her career as an improv and sketch comedian before joining the cast of “Saturday Night Live,” where she quickly established herself as one of the show’s most popular performers.

She is best known for playing memorable characters like Target Lady, Penelope, and Gilly. Wiig’s ability to craft relatable yet quirky personas has earned her widespread recognition and multiple Emmy nominations.

In addition to “SNL,” Wiig has had a successful career as a film star and screenwriter. She has written and starred in many comedies, including “Bridesmaid” and “Fantastic Four,” for which she was nominated for an Oscar. Her creative flair and comedic sense have resulted in several successful projects.

9. Zach Galifianakis:

He is renowned for his irreverent humour and singular comedic style, and his offbeat mannerisms have earned him a fan-favourites and widespread recognition.

His off-screen persona is genuine and self-effacing, making him an ideal companion for fans and collaborators. Born in 1969, Zach began his comedic career in the vibrant comedy scene, working in stand-up and alternative comedy.

His career took off with the success of his web series, Between Two Ferns, which featured his hilarious and awkward interviews with celebrities. The deadpan humour of the show and his unique approach to interviews gained him a loyal following and critical praise.

However, his international fame was born when he starred in the iconic film, The Hangover as Alan Garner. He has since gone on to appear in several other comedic and dramatic films, such as Due Date, The Campaign, and Birdman, all of which have established him as a versatile actor.

10. Kevin Hart:

Kevin Hart is a highly successful and beloved comedian who began his career in the comedy club circuit in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After honing his craft with determination and tenacity, he achieved his breakthrough in stand-up comedy by releasing “I’m A Grown Little Man.”

His unique blend of observational humour and heartfelt storytelling resonated with audiences, catapulting him to stardom.

Hart’s success in the entertainment industry is not limited to stand-up comedy, as he has starred in some successful films and television shows, such as Think Like A Man, Ride Along, and Central Intelligence, all of which have earned him a place among the most bankable leading men in the industry. He is one of the best black comedy actors in the world.

In addition to his success in the comedy world, Hart is well-known for his motivational speeches and commitment to fitness and personal growth. Hart has inspired others to overcome adversity and pursue their dreams through his work.

11. Seth Rogen:

Comic genius Seth Rogen has captivated audiences with his irreverent humour and warmheartedness. Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, on April 15th, 1982, his comedic career began as a young adult, performing stand-up and improv comedy.

His breakthrough came with the release of his highly acclaimed teen comedy, “Superbad” (co-written by himself and directed by him), which catapulted him to the forefront of comedic acting and writing, garnering widespread recognition and paving the way for his subsequent success.

Rogen is renowned for his ability to create relatable and authentic characters, from the slacker characters in films such as “Knocked Up” and Pineapple Express to the blue alien voice-over character in the animated series Monsters vs. Aliens.

In addition to his acting, he has also been involved in several successful projects on and off the screen, further cementing his reputation as a multifaceted comedic actor.

12. Jonah Hill:

Jonah Hill is an amazing comedic actor who has a great sense of humour and drama. He was born on December 20th, 1983, in LA, and his career took off when he got his big break in the comedy “Superbad”. He’s known for his one-liners and quips, and he’s easy to like because he’s so relatable.

He’s been in iconic comedies like ‘Knocked Up,’ ’21 Jump Street,’ and ‘This Is the End’. But Hill’s not just limited to comedy – he’s also a great dramatic actor, and his ability to switch between comedy and dramatic roles shows his depth.

He’s also dedicated to his craft and willing to take on tough roles that push his creative limits. All of this has earned him much praise and admiration from his peers.

13. Jason Segel:

Jason Segel is an Emmy Award-winning actor and comedian who has captivated audiences with his charming performances and unique humour. He is well-known for his off-screen persona and genuine personality, which has earned him great recognition and admiration in the entertainment industry. Segel was born in Los Angeles on the 18th of January, 1980.

His career began in the early 2000s when he was cast in the lead role of Marshall Eriksen in the popular sitcom “How I Met Your Mother”. His affable personality and comedic delivery made him a fan favourite on the show, and he quickly established himself as a leading comedic actor.

However, his role in the critically acclaimed comedy “Forging Sarah Marshall” cemented his status as a comedic star. As both the director and screenwriter, Segel was able to combine humour with heartwarming moments, leaving viewers with a lasting impression. Segel has also demonstrated versatility by starring in more dramatic films, such as David Foster Wallace in The End of the Tour.

14. Kate McKinnon:

Kate McKinnon is a comedic genius and a master of impressions. She has captivated audiences with her range, wit, and stage presence. Kate McKinnon was born on the 6th of January, 1984, in the small New York City suburb of Sea Cliff.

She began her career in improv comedy and sketch comedy, but it wasn’t until she joined the cast of “Saturday Night Live” that she made a name for herself.

She quickly established herself as one of the best impressions on the show, performing flawless impressions of politicians such as Hillary Clinton and entertainers such as Ellen DeGeneres.

She earned critical acclaim for her work on “SNL” and won multiple Emmy Awards. In addition to “SNL,” McKinnon’s comedic brilliance has been on the big screen in movies like “Ghostbusters,” “The Spy Who Dumped Me,” and “Rough Night.”

Her ability to combine physical comedy with clever writing and accurate characterizations has earned her a place in the comedy pantheon.

15. Andy Samberg:

Andy Samberg is a comedic genius and master of satire who has captivated audiences with his contagious humour, limitless energy, and unwavering commitment to comedy. Samberg’s career began in the early 1980s when he was a member of The Lonely Island, a comedy troupe renowned for its viral digital shorts.

During his tenure on ‘SNL’, Samberg’s distinctive humour was evident in his sketches and shorts, such as ‘Lazy Sunday’ and ‘Dumble in a Box’, for which he was nominated for an Emmy.

However, his comedic brilliance is not limited to ‘SNL’, as he has achieved success on television as a co-creator and star of the acclaimed sitcom ‘Brooklyn 9-Nine’. Samberg’s portrayal of ‘Jake Peralta’ has been met with universal acclaim from fans and critics.

In addition to his work in comedy, Samberg has also achieved success in other areas of his life, such as acting, writing, and producing. Samberg has established a lasting legacy in the comedy world with his unique storytelling and characters.

16. Jack Black:

Jack Black is an American comedian, actor, and musician who has captivated audiences worldwide with his infectious energy, musical talent, and hilarious performances.

Black’s comedic career began in theatre and improv, but he truly became a star when he starred in hit films such as “High Fidelity” and “School of Rock”. His rockstar charisma and physical comedy have made him a beloved figure in comedy and music.

Black and Kyle Gass formed the comedic rock band Tenacious D further to cement Black’s reputation as a multi-talented entertainer. The band’s humour-fueled rock performances have gained a loyal following and solidified Black’s status as a legendary comedic musician.

Black’s comedic and musical talents are not limited to comedy. He has also developed an impressive range of dramatic roles, from “King Kong” to “Bernie.”

17. John C. Reilly

John C. Reilly is a multi-talented actor with a wide range of skills and an unmistakable presence on the screen. His exceptional talent and dedication to his craft have made him an icon in film. John C. Reilly was born on the 24th of May 1965 in Chicago, Illinois.

He began his career on the stages of the theatre and later made his way onto the silver screen. His breakthrough came when he played the character of the lovable and mischievous Reed Rothchild in “Boogie Nights.” He is amongst the best American comedy actors male!

His ability to bring depth and humanity to the character, even in a comedic setting, earned him great recognition and appreciation. One of his greatest talents is his ability to switch between genres effortlessly.

He has performed in both dramatic and comedy films, such as “Magnolia,” “Chicago,” and “The Dewey Cox Story.” His versatility and dedication to delivering authentic and memorable portrayals make his performances stand out.

18. Paul Rudd:

Paul Rudd is a comedic and charming actor who has captivated audiences with his charming charm, wit, and ease of use. Rudd was born on the 6th of April, 1969, in Passaic, NJ.

He began his career in the theatre and on television before starring in “Clueless” as Josh. His boyish good looks and comedic timing instantly made him a star.

Since then, he has become a beloved actor in the comedy world and beyond. His ability to balance humour with heart has made him a beloved actor in Hollywood.

He has starred in comedies such as “Anchorman” and “This Is 40,” as well as action blockbusters such as “Ant-Man” in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Rudd is known off-screen for his humility, genuine kindness, and amiable personality. He has a good reputation on the list of best male comedy actors!

19. Simon Pegg:

A comedic genius and accomplished actor, Simon Pegg has delighted audiences with his sharp wit, infectious humour, and brilliant performances. Born on February 14, 1970, in Gloucester, England, Pegg’s journey to comedic stardom began in stand-up comedy and later flourished in film and television.

His breakthrough came with the cult TV series “Spaced,” where he starred and co-wrote, showcasing his talent as both an actor and a writer.

Pegg’s collaboration with director Edgar Wright and co-star Nick Frost on the “Cornetto Trilogy” (“Shaun of the Dead,” “Hot Fuzz,” and “The World’s End”) further solidified his status as a comedic powerhouse.

Known for his dynamic performances and comedic timing, Pegg has also garnered acclaim for his work in Hollywood blockbusters like the “Mission: Impossible” series and “Star Trek” films, showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Off-screen, Pegg is admired for his intellect, creativity, and passion for storytelling. He has contributed to numerous projects as a writer and producer, demonstrating his dedication to the craft. He makes it amongst the top comedy artists.

20. Ricky Gervais:

Ricky Gervais, a comedic trailblazer and a master of satire, has made an indelible impact on the comedy world with his razor-sharp wit, fearless humour, and unapologetic approach to social commentary.

Born on June 25, 1961, in Reading, England, Gervais’ comedic journey began as a stand-up comedian before evolving into television writing and acting.

His breakthrough came with creating “The Office” (UK), a groundbreaking mockumentary-style sitcom in which Gervais starred as the bumbling and cringe-worthy office manager, David Brent.

The show’s biting humour and realistic depiction of workplace dynamics earned him global acclaim and established him as a comedic visionary.

Beyond “The Office,” Gervais continued his success with “Extras,” a satirical comedy series, and other notable projects, demonstrating his talent for crafting sharp and insightful humour.

His hosting of the Golden Globe Awards became legendary for his no-holds-barred approach, delivering controversial and hilarious monologues that challenged the status quo and tackled sensitive topics. Although he is one of the lesser-known best comedy actors, his charm doesn’t fade away!

Conclusion:

The comedy world has been blessed with the best actors who have made their mark on the entertainment industry. Their unique talent, contagious humour, and commitment to their craft have captivated viewers of all ages and walks of life.

Their memorable performances and relatable roles have brought smiles to the faces of millions worldwide. Whether performing stand-up comedy or starring in films and TV shows, these actors have a wide range of skills that allow them to bridge the gap between uproarious comedy and heartwarming moments effortlessly.

Their ability to connect with viewers on both a comedic and emotional level has earned them a place in the hearts and minds of millions of people. In addition to their on-screen success, these comedians have used their platforms to bring about positive change, advocate for important causes, and support others through their philanthropy and activism.