African-American Actors Who Can Make Anything Funny

African-American actors have long played a pivotal role in the landscape of global comedy through their unique timing and delivery. These performers often transition from stand-up stages to major motion pictures and television series. Their ability to infuse humor into various genres ensures that audiences remain engaged and entertained. From physical comedy to sharp social satire these men have defined the art of making people laugh.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy gained fame as a standout cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ during the early eighties. He transitioned to the big screen with major hits like ’48 Hrs.’ and ‘Beverly Hills Cop’. His vocal performance as Donkey in the ‘Shrek’ franchise showcased his ability to bring humor to animated characters. Murphy has received numerous accolades for his work in both comedy and drama throughout his storied career.

Chris Rock

Chris Rock started his journey in stand-up comedy before joining the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’. He created and narrated the popular semi-autobiographical sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. His film roles include the ‘Madagascar’ series and ‘Top Five’. Rock is frequently recognized for his sharp observational humor and his ability to address complex social issues with wit.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart is known for his high energy and self-deprecating style in several successful stand-up specials. He has starred in box office successes such as ‘Ride Along’ and the ‘Jumanji’ sequels. Hart often collaborates with other major stars to create comedic dynamics that appeal to a broad audience. His presence in the entertainment industry extends to producing and hosting various television programs.

Dave Chappelle

Dave Chappelle is widely regarded for his sketch comedy series ‘Chappelle’s Show’ which became a cultural phenomenon. He has appeared in films like ‘Half Baked’ and ‘The Nutty Professor’. Chappelle focuses on social commentary and storytelling within his comedic routines. His career has been marked by several high-profile stand-up specials that have earned critical acclaim and multiple awards.

Martin Lawrence

Martin Lawrence became a household name with his self-titled sitcom ‘Martin’ during the nineties. He achieved major cinematic success starring in the ‘Bad Boys’ franchise alongside Will Smith. His filmography includes ‘Big Momma’s House’ and ‘Blue Streak’ where he utilized physical comedy. Lawrence continues to be a prominent figure in the action-comedy genre.

Will Smith

Will Smith rose to prominence as the star of the hit television series ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’. He successfully moved into film with leading roles in ‘Men in Black’ and ‘Hitch’. While he has taken on many dramatic parts his comedic timing remains a staple of his performances. Smith has built a reputation as one of the most versatile and bankable actors in Hollywood history.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was a member of The Original Kings of Comedy and starred in his own long-running television series ‘The Bernie Mac Show’. He appeared in major films such as ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Bad Santa’. Mac was known for his distinct delivery and his ability to find humor in everyday family life. His legacy in the comedy world remains influential years after his passing.

Cedric the Entertainer

Cedric the Entertainer has enjoyed a prolific career in stand-up and as a lead in the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’. He provided memorable performances in films like ‘Barbershop’ and ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’. His work often centers on relatable characters and observational humor about community life. He has also voiced characters in various animated projects including the ‘Madagascar’ series.

Steve Harvey

Steve Harvey found early success as a stand-up comedian and the star of ‘The Steve Harvey Show’. He has since become a dominant personality in daytime television as the host of ‘Family Feud’. Harvey has authored books that inspired the film ‘Think Like a Man’. His career spans stand-up and acting and hosting across multiple media platforms.

Tracy Morgan

Tracy Morgan is best known for his work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and his role as Tracy Jordan on ’30 Rock’. He has starred in movies such as ‘Cop Out’ and ‘The Last O.G.’ television series. Morgan is recognized for his eccentric characters and unpredictable comedic style. He has overcome significant personal challenges to return to the stage and screen.

Anthony Anderson

Anthony Anderson is the lead actor and executive producer of the critically acclaimed sitcom ‘Black-ish’. He has appeared in a variety of films including ‘Kangaroo Jack’ and ‘The Departed’. Anderson began his career with roles in ‘Hang Time’ and ‘All About the Andersons’. He is frequently noted for his ability to balance family-centric humor with serious social themes.

Mike Epps

Mike Epps gained widespread recognition for his role as Day-Day Jones in ‘Next Friday’ and ‘Friday After Next’. He has released several stand-up specials and starred in films like ‘The Hangover’ and ‘Resident Evil Apocalypse’. Epps often brings a raw and improvisational style to his comedic performances. He continues to tour as a stand-up comedian while maintaining a busy acting schedule.

Jamie Foxx

Jamie Foxx started his career on the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’ before starring in ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’. He won an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles in the film ‘Ray’. His comedic talents are evident in movies like ‘Horrible Bosses’ and ‘Booty Call’. Foxx is a multifaceted performer who excels in music and acting and stand-up comedy.

Marlon Wayans

Marlon Wayans is a member of the famous Wayans family and starred in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise. He appeared in the sitcom ‘The Wayans Bros.’ and the film ‘White Chicks’. Wayans is known for his physical comedy and his work in parody films. He has also ventured into more dramatic territory with his performance in ‘Requiem for a Dream’.

Shawn Wayans

Shawn Wayans collaborated extensively with his brother Marlon on projects like ‘The Wayans Bros.’ and ‘Don’t Be a Menace’. He played a significant role in writing and starring in the ‘Scary Movie’ series. His career began on the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’ alongside his siblings. Wayans is recognized for his contributions to the parody genre and television comedy.

Terry Crews

Terry Crews is known for his comedic roles in ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ and the film ‘White Chicks’. Before acting he had a professional career in the National Football League. He has appeared in the ‘Expendables’ franchise and hosted ‘America’s Got Talent’. Crews often uses his muscular physique for physical comedy and expressive performances.

Kenan Thompson

Kenan Thompson is the longest-running cast member in the history of ‘Saturday Night Live’. He first gained fame as a child star on the Nickelodeon shows ‘All That’ and ‘Kenan and Kel’. Thompson starred in the film ‘Good Burger’ and had his own sitcom titled ‘Kenan’. His work is characterized by his consistent comedic timing and a wide range of characters.

JB Smoove

JB Smoove is widely recognized for his role as Leon Black on the series ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. He has appeared in films such as ‘Spider-Man Far From Home’ and ‘Date Night’. Smoove began his career as a writer and performer on ‘Saturday Night Live’. His comedic style often involves high energy and extensive improvisation.

Craig Robinson

Craig Robinson is best known for his role as Darryl Philbin on the American version of ‘The Office’. He has appeared in several comedy films including ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ and ‘Pineapple Express’. Robinson often incorporates his musical talents into his comedic routines and acting roles. He also starred in the television series ‘Mr. Robinson’ and ‘Killing It’.

Donald Glover

Donald Glover created and starred in the award-winning series ‘Atlanta’. He gained early recognition as a writer for ’30 Rock’ and a cast member on ‘Community’. Glover also has a successful music career under the stage name Childish Gambino. His work often blends surreal humor with poignant social commentary.

Keegan-Michael Key

Keegan-Michael Key is one half of the comedic duo behind the sketch show ‘Key and Peele’. He has appeared in numerous films like ‘Let’s Be Cops’ and ‘The Prom’. Key is known for his incredible range of voices and his ability to play diverse characters. He also performs frequently on Broadway and in various voice-acting roles.

Jordan Peele

Jordan Peele co-created ‘Key and Peele’ before transitioning into a highly successful career as a director. He won an Academy Award for his screenplay for the horror-comedy ‘Get Out’. While he now focuses on directing his early work showcased his brilliant comedic timing and satirical skills. Peele remains an influential figure in modern cinema.

Bill Bellamy

Bill Bellamy first rose to fame as a prominent VJ on MTV during the nineties. He is credited with coining the phrase “booty call” during one of his stand-up routines. Bellamy has appeared in films like ‘How to Be a Player’ and ‘Any Given Sunday’. He continues to perform stand-up comedy and host various entertainment programs.

Katt Williams

Katt Williams is known for his fast-paced delivery and distinctive stage presence in his stand-up specials. He played the character Money Mike in the film ‘Friday After Next’. Williams has appeared in several television shows including ‘My Wife and Kids’ and ‘Atlanta’. His comedy often touches on politics and urban culture and personal experiences.

Chris Tucker

Chris Tucker became an international star with his role in the ‘Rush Hour’ film series alongside Jackie Chan. He gained early fame for his performance as Smokey in the cult classic ‘Friday’. Tucker is known for his high-pitched voice and fast delivery. After a hiatus he returned to acting with a role in ‘Silver Linings Playbook’.

Arsenio Hall

Arsenio Hall is famous for hosting ‘The Arsenio Hall Show’ which was a staple of late-night television. He starred alongside Eddie Murphy in the comedy classic ‘Coming to America’. Hall has appeared in various television series and won a season of ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’. His work has had a significant impact on late-night talk show formats.

David Alan Grier

David Alan Grier was a foundational member of the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. He has appeared in numerous films such as ‘Jumanji’ and ‘The Woodsman’. Grier is a classically trained actor who frequently performs in Broadway productions. He has been nominated for multiple Tony Awards for his work on stage.

Hannibal Buress

Hannibal Buress is a stand-up comedian who appeared as Lincoln Rice on the series ‘Broad City’. He has had roles in films like ‘The Secret Life of Pets’ and ‘Tag’. Buress is known for his deadpan delivery and unique observational comedy. He has also worked as a writer for ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ’30 Rock’.

Lil Rel Howery

Lil Rel Howery gained widespread acclaim for his breakout role in the film ‘Get Out’. He starred in his own television series ‘Rel’ and the movie ‘Free Guy’. Howery is known for his relatable storytelling and high-energy comedic style. He continues to be a sought-after actor for both comedic and dramatic roles.

Jerrod Carmichael

Jerrod Carmichael created and starred in the semi-autobiographical sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’. He has released several stand-up specials including the critically acclaimed ‘Rothaniel’. Carmichael appeared in films like ‘Neighbors’ and ‘Poor Things’. His work often explores deeply personal and provocative themes through a comedic lens.

Lamorne Morris

Lamorne Morris is best known for playing Winston Bishop on the sitcom ‘New Girl’. He has appeared in films such as ‘Game Night’ and ‘The Christmas Chronicles 2’. Morris is recognized for his quirky character work and physical comedy. He also starred in the series ‘Woke’ which addresses social issues through a mix of live action and animation.

Tyler Perry

Tyler Perry is a prolific creator who is famous for his character Madea in a long-running film series. He has built a massive media empire that includes television shows like ‘House of Payne’. While many of his works are melodramatic they frequently feature comedic elements. Perry is also known for his philanthropic efforts and the establishment of his own major film studio.

Deon Cole

Deon Cole is a writer and actor known for his roles on ‘Black-ish’ and its spin-off ‘Grown-ish’. He has released several stand-up specials and served as a writer for ‘Conan’. Cole is recognized for his dry wit and his unique perspective on social norms. He continues to perform as a stand-up comedian while acting in various television projects.

Jay Pharoah

Jay Pharoah is a former ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast member known for his impeccable celebrity impressions. He starred in the series ‘White Famous’ and appeared in films like ‘Ride Along’. Pharoah is highly skilled in vocal mimicry and physical transformation. He remains an active performer in the stand-up comedy circuit.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell rose to fame as a teen star on the Nickelodeon series ‘All That’ and ‘Kenan and Kel’. He starred in the cult comedy film ‘Good Burger’ as the character Ed. Mitchell has continued to work in television and voice acting over the years. He recently returned to his most famous role in the sequel ‘Good Burger 2’.

Sinbad

Sinbad became a major star in the nineties with his own television show and several stand-up specials. He appeared in family-friendly films such as ‘First Kid’ and ‘Jingle All the Way’. Sinbad is known for his clean comedic style and his ability to improvise with an audience. He has remained a beloved figure in the comedy community for decades.

D.L. Hughley

D.L. Hughley was one of the stars of ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’ and ‘The Hughleys’. He has hosted several talk shows and is a prominent radio personality. Hughley is known for his political commentary and his sharp observational humor. He continues to tour as a stand-up comedian and appears in various television roles.

John Witherspoon

John Witherspoon was a legendary comedic actor best known for his role as Mr. Jones in the ‘Friday’ series. He voiced the character Granddad on the animated show ‘The Boondocks’. Witherspoon appeared in many films including ‘Boomerang’ and ‘Vampire in Brooklyn’. His catchphrases and distinct comedic style made him a favorite among fans for generations.

Charlie Murphy

Charlie Murphy gained significant fame for his appearances in ‘True Hollywood Stories’ on ‘Chappelle’s Show’. He was a talented writer and actor who appeared in films like ‘Norbit’ and ‘Our Family Wedding’. Murphy often shared humorous stories about his experiences with other celebrities during the eighties. His contribution to the comedy world is highly regarded by his peers and fans.

Brandon T. Jackson

Brandon T. Jackson is known for his roles in ‘Tropic Thunder’ and ‘Percy Jackson and the Olympians’. He is a stand-up comedian who has appeared in several television specials. Jackson played the character Alpa Chino in ‘Tropic Thunder’ where he demonstrated his comedic range. He continues to work in both film and television as a comedic and dramatic actor.

Please share which of these legendary comedic actors is your absolute favorite in the comments.