Best TV comedians of all time

Discover the most influential and hilarious performers who have graced television screens throughout history. This ranking explores iconic stand-up specials, sketch comedy legends, sitcom stars, and variety show hosts who have defined humor and entertainment across generations. Explore the evolution of televised comedy, from groundbreaking pioneers to modern-day masters, and celebrate the artists who have consistently delivered laughter to audiences worldwide. Perfect for fans of classic comedy, stand-up, sitcoms, and variety shows looking to reminisce or discover new favorites.

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  1. 1

    Bob Newhart

    661 Global Votes
    • Known for deadpan and stammering delivery style

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    Newhart is known for his understated, deadpan, and stammering delivery. His sitcoms were highly successful, with 'Newhart''s twist ending chosen by TV Guide as the best finale in television history.

  2. 2

    Lucille Ball

    0 Global Votes
    • Trailblazing comedian, actress, and producer

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    Ball is consistently cited as a pioneer and master of physical comedy, whose work on 'I Love Lucy' revolutionized the sitcom genre and remains 'ridiculously funny even today'. She was also the first woman to run a major television studio.

  3. 3

    Carol Burnett

    0 Global Votes
    • Cherished icon in American comedy

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    Burnett is a 'sketch comedy queen' whose variety show is hailed for its contributions to the genre. Her versatility, collaborative spirit, and infectious energy made her show a masterclass in comedic craft, inspiring generations.

  4. 4

    Johnny Carson

    0 Global Votes
    • Legendary comedian and TV host

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    Carson is considered the 'king of late-night television' who hosted over 8,000 episodes and set the benchmark for talk show hosts. His monologues, recurring characters, and improvisational skills made him a de facto member of his audience's homes.

  5. 5

    George Carlin

    0 Global Votes
    • Known for dark humor

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    Carlin was a master of social commentary and a trailblazer in stand-up, known for challenging the status quo and pushing boundaries with his wit and honesty. His influence on comedic expression is enduring.

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  7. 6

    Richard Pryor

    0 Global Votes
    • Fearlessly drew from personal life

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    Pryor is widely regarded as one of the most influential and groundbreaking comedians ever, known for his raw, honest, and unfiltered style that used his personal experiences to inspire content.

  8. 7

    Jerry Seinfeld

    0 Global Votes
    • Earned $1 million per episode

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    Seinfeld is synonymous with observational comedy, taking everyday instances to a new level. 'Seinfeld' is considered one of the most popular and influential sitcoms in modern history, with his stand-up material often incorporated into the show.

  9. 8

    Dick Van Dyke

    0 Global Votes
    • American actor and comedian

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    Van Dyke's physical comedy and chemistry with Mary Tyler Moore on 'The Dick Van Dyke Show' caused audiences to 'crack up every week' and helped make him a star.

  10. 9

    Redd Foxx

    0 Global Votes
    • Beloved television icon

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    Foxx starred as the grumpy Fred G. Sanford in the classic 1970s sitcom 'Sanford and Son', which is considered by many to be one of the funniest sitcoms of all time. He was a trailblazer who helped smash the Las Vegas nightclub color barrier.

  11. 10

    Robin Williams

    0 Global Votes
    • Frenetic energy on display

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    Williams was celebrated for his incredible improvisational skills and his ability to blend comedy with poignant drama. He was a unique and influential comedic voice.

  12. 11

    Eddie Murphy

    0 Global Votes
    • Greatest stand-up comedy film of all time

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    Murphy helped save a floundering 'Saturday Night Live' and delivered highly influential stand-up specials. He defined 'cool' and 'hip' for the 1980s with his charisma, versatility, and dynamic delivery.

  13. 12

    Tina Fey

    0 Global Votes
    • Served as head writer for Saturday Night Live

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    Fey is an 'all-around comedy icon' whose talents as a comic actor and writer are highly regarded. She was SNL's first female head writer and has consistently delivered influential work.

  14. 13

    Larry David

    0 Global Votes
    • Acclaimed for unscripted humor

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    David is a creative genius behind two of television's most acclaimed comedies. His neurotic, socially challenged persona in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' creates a unique and hilarious brand of comedy.

  15. 14

    Julia Louis-Dreyfus

    0 Global Votes
    • Received more than 11 Emmy awards

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    Louis-Dreyfus is an 'infinitely talented performer' who has been a ubiquitous presence in comedy, known for her ability to portray neurotic, silly, and smart characters.

  16. 15

    Steve Carell

    0 Global Votes
    • Starred in the American remake of The Office

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    Carell won hearts as Michael Scott in 'The Office', a role that perfectly blended awkward charm and comedic genius. He is recognized for his ability to handle both funny and sensitive subjects.

  17. 16

    Conan O'Brien

    0 Global Votes
    • Memorable, hilarious, and poignant moments

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    O'Brien is a highly regarded late-night host known for his fantastic comedy writing, warm interviewing style, and willingness to commit fully to any joke.

  18. 17

    Jon Stewart

    0 Global Votes
    • Reshaped late night comedy

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    Stewart transformed 'The Daily Show' into a nightly dismantling of news and politics, becoming a significant political figure and launching the careers of many other comedians.

  19. 18

    Stephen Colbert

    0 Global Votes
    • Known for hosting The Colbert Report

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    Colbert is recognized for hosting two iconic late-night shows, with 'The Colbert Report' being a great work of satirical comedy.

  20. 19

    Donald Glover

    0 Global Votes
    • Multi-talented writer, director, musician, and actor

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    Glover first gained fame as a comedic actor in 'Community' and later created and starred in the critically acclaimed series 'Atlanta', demonstrating his versatility and earning multiple Emmys.