African-American Actresses Who Can Make Anything Funny

African American actresses have long been the backbone of the comedy genre through their work in stand-up and film and television. These performers possess a unique ability to transform ordinary scripts into memorable comedic moments using timing and physical humor and expressive delivery. From pioneers who broke barriers in early sitcoms to modern stars who dominate streaming platforms these women continue to redefine humor for global audiences. Their influence extends beyond just laughter as many also serve as writers and producers for their own projects.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg achieved worldwide fame for her versatile performances in both comedic and dramatic roles. She won an Academy Award for her performance in ‘Ghost’ where she played a psychic medium. Her work in ‘Sister Act’ solidified her status as a leading comedic force in Hollywood during the early nineties. She is one of the few entertainers to have achieved the prestigious EGOT status by winning an Emmy and a Grammy and an Oscar and a Tony. Her long tenure on ‘The View’ continues to highlight her ability to deliver commentary with a unique comedic flair.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes began her career as a writer on ‘The Chris Rock Show’ before becoming a prominent stand-up comedian. She is well known for her sharp observational humor and her distinctive voice in various animated projects. Her roles in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ and ‘The Upshaws’ demonstrate her ability to steal scenes with minimal dialogue. She has received multiple Emmy Award nominations for her contributions to television writing and acting. Her performances often blend social commentary with relatable personal anecdotes.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph became a household name during her tenure on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she showcased a wide range of celebrity impressions. She transitioned successfully into film with a standout role in the comedy hit ‘Bridesmaids’. Her voice work in ‘Big Mouth’ has earned her critical acclaim and multiple awards for her comedic timing. She often uses physical comedy and musical talent to enhance her performances in various sketches and films. She continues to be a sought after collaborator for major comedy projects in both film and television.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish experienced a massive career breakthrough with her performance in the film ‘Girls Trip’. Her energetic personality and storytelling ability have made her a favorite in the stand-up comedy world. She published a successful memoir titled ‘The Last Black Unicorn’ which detailed her journey to stardom. She has since starred in numerous films and hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she won an Emmy for her performance. Her ability to bring authenticity and humor to every role has established her as a major star.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones gained national recognition for her high energy performances as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She starred in the ‘Ghostbusters’ reboot and brought her signature boisterous humor to the big screen. Her social media presence during major sporting events has turned her live commentary into a comedic sensation. She frequently uses her stature and powerful voice to command attention in every scene she inhabits. Her background in stand-up comedy provides a foundation for her fearless approach to improvisational humor.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross first captivated audiences with her role as Joan Clayton on the long running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. She followed that success with a celebrated performance as Rainbow Johnson on the hit series ‘Black-ish’. Her comedic style often involves expressive facial movements and a mastery of awkward social situations. She has won multiple Golden Globe and NAACP Image Awards for her contributions to television comedy. Her ability to balance sophisticated humor with physical gags makes her a versatile leading lady.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique started her career in stand-up comedy and became one of the famous Queens of Comedy. She starred in the popular sitcom ‘The Parkers’ where she played the flamboyant and hilarious Nikki Parker. While she won an Academy Award for a dramatic role in ‘Precious’ her roots remain firmly planted in comedy. She has hosted numerous talk shows and comedy specials that showcase her bold and unfiltered brand of humor. Her stage presence is characterized by a confident delivery and an ability to connect deeply with her audience.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph has enjoyed a long and successful career in theater and film and television. She currently stars in the mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’ where she plays the veteran teacher Barbara Howard. Her performance in the series has earned her an Emmy Award and widespread critical praise for her deadpan delivery. She originally rose to fame in the Broadway production of ‘Dreamgirls’ before transitioning into television roles on shows like ‘Moesha’. Her ability to find humor in authoritative characters adds a layer of depth to her comedic work.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall became a comedy icon through her recurring role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ film franchise. She has since appeared in a variety of successful comedies including ‘The Best Man’ and ‘Girls Trip’. Her comedic timing often relies on her ability to deliver outrageous lines with a straight face. She was the first African American woman to win the New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actress for her work in ‘Support the Girls’. Her versatility allows her to transition between broad slapstick and subtle character driven humor.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson first gained popularity through her viral comedic videos on social media platforms and her work at BuzzFeed. She created and stars in the hit ABC sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’ which revitalized the network mockumentary format. Her writing focuses on relatable workplace situations and the quirks of everyday people. She has made history as a multiple Emmy winner for both her acting and her writing on the show. Her rise to fame represents a new generation of comedians who built their following through digital content.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae initially garnered attention with her innovative web series ‘Awkward Black Girl’ on YouTube. She co-created and starred in the HBO series ‘Insecure’ which explored the complexities of modern life and friendship. Her humor often centers on internal monologues and the social anxieties of being a young professional. She has become a powerful producer in Hollywood and creates opportunities for other diverse voices in comedy. Her deadpan delivery and relatable storytelling have made her a leading figure in contemporary television.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson is widely recognized for her range in both intense dramas and high energy comedies. She showed her comedic prowess in films like ‘Baby Boy’ and ‘Think Like a Man’. Her portrayal of Cookie Lyon on ‘Empire’ included many iconic and unintentionally hilarious moments that became internet memes. She starred in the comedy ‘What Men Want’ where she demonstrated her ability to lead a physical comedy film. Her infectious energy often translates into performances that are both heartfelt and funny.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash first became known for her hilarious role as Deputy Raineesha Williams on the spoof series ‘Reno 911!’. She hosted the home makeover show ‘Clean House’ where her witty commentary earned her a Daytime Emmy. Her career has seen a mix of comedy and drama including notable roles in ‘Claws’ and ‘Scream Queens’. She is praised for her ability to play larger than life characters with a sense of grounded humanity. Her quick wit makes her a frequent and popular guest on various talk shows and game shows.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer is a celebrated Academy Award winner who often brings a dry sense of humor to her roles. She displayed her comedic timing early in her career with guest spots on shows like ‘The Big Bang Theory’. Her performance in the film ‘The Help’ managed to balance serious themes with moments of sharp comedic relief. She has starred in comedies such as ‘Instant Family’ and ‘Thunder Force’ where she plays the straight woman to more eccentric characters. Her expressive eyes and subtle reactions make her a master of the comedic reaction shot.

Queen Latifah

Queen Latifah transitioned from a successful hip hop career to becoming a major movie star and television personality. She starred in the classic sitcom ‘Living Single’ which remains a cultural touchstone for many fans. Her roles in films like ‘Bringing Down the House’ and ‘Last Holiday’ showcased her ability to lead mainstream comedies. She has been nominated for an Academy Award and has won both an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Her commanding presence and natural charisma make her a natural fit for both lighthearted and serious roles.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is often referred to as the Mother of Black Hollywood due to her frequent roles as a matriarch. She is well known for her role as Ruby Johnson on ‘Black-ish’ where her boisterous personality often stole the show. Her career spans decades of work in film and television and theater including voice roles in ‘The Princess and the Frog’. She is famous for her high energy delivery and her ability to turn any line into a comedic event. Her memoir ‘The Mother of Black Hollywood’ details her extensive experience in the entertainment industry.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin rose to fame as the witty and precocious Diane Johnson on the hit series ‘Black-ish’. At a very young age she became the youngest executive producer in Hollywood history for the film ‘Little’. Her performance in ‘Little’ proved that she could lead a major comedy film alongside established adult actors. She has won numerous NAACP Image Awards for her comedic work on television. Her ability to deliver sharp and sophisticated insults with a youthful face creates a unique and funny dynamic.

Robin Thede

Robin Thede is the creator and star of the groundbreaking ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ on HBO. She previously made history as the first African American woman to be a head writer for a late night talk show. Her work focuses on showcasing a diverse range of comedic styles and characters within the Black community. She is a master of character acting and often plays multiple roles within a single episode of her show. Her influence in the industry is growing as she continues to produce and write innovative comedic content.

Nicole Byer

Nicole Byer is a stand-up comedian and actress who gained wide popularity as the host of the baking show ‘Nailed It!’. Her infectious laughter and self deprecating humor have made the show a massive success on Netflix. She stars in the semi-autobiographical comedy series ‘Loosely Exactly Nicole’ which highlights her unique comedic voice. She is also a prolific podcaster who shares hilarious stories about her life and career. Her high energy and willingness to commit to absurd situations make her a standout performer.

Retta

Retta became a fan favorite for her role as Donna Meagle on the beloved sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. Her catchphrase and attitude created some of the most memorable moments in the series. She later transitioned into a lead role in the series ‘Good Girls’ which blended suburban drama with dark humor. Before her television success she worked as a stand-up comedian and toured extensively across the country. Her deadpan delivery and sophisticated style of humor have earned her a dedicated following.

Amber Ruffin

Amber Ruffin is a writer and performer who gained prominence as a writer for ‘Late Night with Seth Meyers’. She became the first African American woman to write for a late night network talk show in the United States. She hosts her own program ‘The Amber Ruffin Show’ where she uses songs and sketches to tackle topical issues. Her comedic style is characterized by a bright and sunny disposition that contrasts with her sharp political commentary. She also co-authored a book about her experiences with racism that uses humor to illustrate serious points.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji is best known for her role as Molly Carter on the critically acclaimed HBO series ‘Insecure’. She is a talented stand-up comedian who often incorporates her Nigerian heritage into her comedy specials. Her special ‘Momma I Made It’ showcases her ability to blend personal storytelling with cultural observations. She has also appeared in films like ‘Night School’ where she demonstrated her comedic chemistry with other major stars. Her performances often explore the humor found in the struggles of navigating professional and personal lives.

Natasha Rothwell

Natasha Rothwell is an actress and writer who served as a writer and star on the series ‘Insecure’. She received widespread acclaim for her hilarious performance as Kelli Prenny in the show. She has also appeared in major films like ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ and ‘Sonic the Hedgehog’. Her work as a writer on ‘Saturday Night Live’ helped hone her skills in sketch comedy and character development. She has a unique talent for playing characters who are both eccentric and deeply lovable.

Ego Nwodim

Ego Nwodim is a current cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she has become known for her strong character work. Her recurring character Edith Puthie and her impressions of various celebrities have made her a standout performer. She frequently guests on comedy podcasts where her improvisational skills are on full display. Before joining the cast of ‘SNL’ she was a regular performer at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. Her ability to maintain a character in even the most absurd sketches has made her a vital part of the show.

Loni Love

Loni Love is a comedian and actress who served as a long time co-host on the talk show ‘The Real’. She began her career in engineering before pursuing a full time career in stand-up comedy. She has appeared in several films including ‘Mother’s Day’ and ‘Paul Blart: Mall Cop 2’. Her comedic style is often direct and relatable and focuses on modern dating and lifestyle topics. She has won a Daytime Emmy Award for her work as a host and continues to perform stand-up across the country.

Sherri Shepherd

Sherri Shepherd is a versatile actress and comedian who has appeared in numerous sitcoms including ‘Less Than Perfect’. She was a popular co-host on ‘The View’ for several years where she provided a comedic perspective on current events. She currently hosts her own daytime talk show ‘Sherri’ where she incorporates stand-up and celebrity interviews. Her role in the sitcom ’30 Rock’ as Angie Jordan remains a fan favorite for its hilarious intensity. She is known for her warm personality and her ability to find humor in her personal life and parenting.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold became a sitcom legend for her role as Pamela James on the hit show ‘Martin’. She followed that success with another iconic role as Rochelle on ‘Everybody Hates Chris’. Her ability to play strong and vocal characters with a comedic edge has made her a television staple. She currently stars in the sitcom ‘The Neighborhood’ alongside Cedric the Entertainer. Her physical comedy and expressive delivery are hallmarks of her long and successful career.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell is widely recognized for her role as Gina Waters-Payne on the influential sitcom ‘Martin’. She continued her success in television comedy with a lead role on ‘My Wife and Kids’. Her chemistry with her co-stars and her talent for physical comedy have made her a beloved figure in the genre. She has also appeared in films like the ‘House Party’ series which are considered comedy classics. Her career spans decades and includes work as a singer and a producer.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry made history as the first African American woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for ‘227’. Her portrayal of the character Sandra Clark was famous for her unique voice and flirtatious personality. She later starred in the popular sitcom ‘Sister Sister’ as the fun loving mother Lisa Landry. She continues to be a regular presence on television with roles in various sitcoms and soap operas. Her iconic delivery and comedic timing have influenced generations of performers.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a prolific actress known for her soulful voice and her ability to blend comedy with drama. She was a member of the original Broadway cast of ‘Dreamgirls’ before finding success in film and television. Her role as Marla Hendricks on ‘Boston Public’ earned her an Emmy Award for her dramatic work. However she is also well known for her comedic roles in the ‘Madea’ films and the series ‘The Carmichael Show’. Her warm presence and impeccable timing make her a favorite in any ensemble cast.

Debra Wilson

Debra Wilson was the longest serving original cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘Mad TV’. She became famous for her fearless physical comedy and her uncanny impressions of celebrities like Whitney Houston. Her work in sketch comedy paved the way for many other African American women in the genre. She has since become a prominent voice actress in video games and animated series. Her ability to disappear into a wide variety of characters showcases her immense range as a comedic performer.

Erika Alexander

Erika Alexander is best known for her role as the witty lawyer Maxine Shaw on the classic sitcom ‘Living Single’. Her character became a feminist icon for her independence and sharp tongue. She has appeared in a variety of films including the horror hit ‘Get Out’ where she provided a memorable performance. She is also a writer and producer who works to create more diverse stories in the entertainment industry. Her ability to deliver fast paced dialogue with comedic precision remains her trademark.

Kim Fields

Kim Fields grew up in front of the camera as Tootie Ramsey on the long running sitcom ‘The Facts of Life’. She later starred as Regine Hunter on ‘Living Single’ which further established her comedic credentials. She has also worked behind the scenes as a director for various television comedies and sitcoms. In recent years she has appeared on reality television and starred in the series ‘The Upshaws’. Her career represents a successful transition from child star to an accomplished veteran of the comedy world.

Kym Whitley

Kym Whitley is a stand-up comedian and actress who has appeared in dozens of films and television shows. She starred in her own reality series ‘Raising Whitley’ which followed her journey as a new mother. Her comedic roles in films like ‘Next Friday’ and ‘Deliver Us from Eva’ are well remembered by fans. She has a distinctive comedic voice and an energetic style that makes her a standout in ensemble casts. She is also a frequent guest on comedy podcasts and talk shows.

Sommore

Sommore is often referred to as the Diva of Contemporary Comedy and was a leading member of the Queens of Comedy tour. she has headlined numerous successful comedy specials on various cable networks. She appeared in the film ‘Friday After Next’ where she showcased her comedic acting skills. Her stand-up often focuses on themes of womanhood and independence and social class. She is known for her glamorous stage presence and her sharp and biting wit.

Luenell

Luenell is a comedian and actress who gained widespread fame for her role in the film ‘Borat’. Her unfiltered and bold comedic style has made her a favorite in the stand-up comedy circuit. She has appeared in various films including ‘Think Like a Man’ and ‘Dolemite Is My Name’. She often plays characters who are outspoken and unapologetic which leads to hilarious interactions. Her career has spanned several decades and she continues to be a prominent voice in urban comedy.

Adele Givens

Adele Givens is a celebrated stand-up comedian who was also a featured performer in the Queens of Comedy. She had a memorable recurring role on ‘The Hughleys’ and has appeared on ‘The Parkers’. Her comedy often deals with relationships and family life with a direct and honest approach. She has a powerful stage presence and a voice that commands the attention of her audience. Her contributions to stand-up have made her a respected figure among her comedic peers.

Janelle James

Janelle James gained widespread recognition for her role as the hilarious and self absorbed principal Ava Coleman on ‘Abbott Elementary’. Her performance has earned her Emmy nominations and made her one of the breakout stars of the show. She is an experienced stand-up comedian who has toured with major acts like Chris Rock. Her comedic style is characterized by a dry and confident delivery that makes even her most outrageous lines seem believable. She also hosts the game show ‘The Final Straw’ on ABC.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress and writer who has quickly become one of the most sought after talents in comedy. She stars in the critically acclaimed series ‘The Bear’ where she balances intense drama with moments of levity. She is a talented voice actress who took over the role of Missy on the animated series ‘Big Mouth’. Her work as a writer on ‘What We Do in the Shadows’ showcases her ability to craft unique and surreal humor. She has a natural and understated comedic presence that resonates with modern audiences.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph is a Tony nominated actress who has made a significant impact in both comedy and drama. She starred in the film ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ where her performance was praised for its warmth and humor. She has a recurring role in the mystery comedy series ‘Only Murders in the Building’ where she plays a skeptical detective. Her ability to play grounded characters in absurd situations makes her a valuable comedic asset. She won an Academy Award for her dramatic work in ‘The Holdovers’ while still maintaining her comedic roots.

Danielle Pinnock

Danielle Pinnock is an actress and writer who currently stars in the hit CBS comedy ‘Ghosts’. Her portrayal of the jazz singer ghost Alberta Haynes has become a fan favorite for its humor and heart. She originally gained attention for her viral comedic sketches on social media during the pandemic. She has appeared in various television shows including ‘Young Sheldon’ where she displayed her comedic versatility. Her background in theater and improv informs her expressive and high energy performances.

Michelle Buteau

Michelle Buteau is a stand-up comedian and actress who has become a frequent face on streaming platforms. She hosts the popular reality competition ‘The Circle’ where her witty narration provides constant entertainment. She starred in and created the series ‘Survival of the Thickest’ which is based on her book of essays. Her film credits include ‘Always Be My Maybe’ and ‘Marry Me’ where she plays the comedic best friend. Her humor is warm and inclusive and often centers on body positivity and modern life.

Phoebe Robinson

Phoebe Robinson is a comedian and writer who rose to fame as one half of the ‘2尊 Queens’ podcast. She has written several bestselling books that use humor to explore her experiences with race and gender. She created and starred in the series ‘Everything’s Trash’ which showcases her relatable comedic voice. She has also appeared in films like ‘Ibiza’ and ‘What Men Want’. Her style is conversational and energetic and often focuses on her love for pop culture.

Jessica Williams

Jessica Williams first gained national attention as the youngest correspondent on ‘The Daily Show’. She co-hosted the ‘2尊 Queens’ podcast and starred in the film ‘The Incredible Jessica James’. She currently stars in the series ‘Shrinking’ where she brings a vibrant and funny energy to her role as a therapist. Her comedy often addresses social issues through a personal and highly relatable lens. She is recognized for her intelligence and her ability to lead both comedic and dramatic scenes.

Sasheer Zamata

Sasheer Zamata is a comedian and actress who served as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She has a successful career in stand-up comedy and has released multiple specials that highlight her observational humor. She stars in the series ‘Home Economics’ and has provided voices for various animated projects. She was also named a Celebrity Ambassador for the ACLU for her work in advocacy. Her comedic style is thoughtful and witty and often explores the nuances of identity and social interactions.

Gabrielle Dennis

Gabrielle Dennis is an actress and comedian who has displayed her range in both sketch comedy and scripted series. She was a regular cast member on ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ where she played a variety of hilarious characters. She starred in the sitcom ‘The Game’ and played Whitney Houston in the miniseries ‘The Bobby Brown Story’. She currently appears in the comedy series ‘The Big Door Prize’ on Apple TV. Her ability to blend physical comedy with subtle character work makes her a versatile performer.

Skye Townsend

Skye Townsend is a comedian and singer who joined the cast of ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ in its later seasons. She is well known for her impressive celebrity impressions and her high energy character work. She has a strong presence on social media where she shares comedic sketches and musical performances. Her background in the arts allows her to incorporate various talents into her comedic routines. She is considered a rising star in the world of sketch comedy and television.

Ashley Nicole Black

Ashley Nicole Black is a multi-talented writer and actress who won an Emmy for her work on ‘Full Frontal with Samantha Bee’. She was a writer and star on ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ where she helped create iconic characters. She has also worked as a writer and producer on the hit series ‘Ted Lasso’. Her comedy often combines sharp political insight with relatable human experiences. She is a prominent voice in the industry who advocates for better representation in comedy writing rooms.

Zainab Johnson

Zainab Johnson is a stand-up comedian and actress who was a finalist on the show ‘Last Comic Standing’. She stars in the Amazon original series ‘Upload’ where she provides a significant amount of the show’s comedic relief. Her stand-up often explores her experiences as a Black Muslim woman growing up in a large family. She has a unique and commanding stage presence that makes her a standout in any lineup. Her ability to find humor in her personal background has earned her a dedicated and diverse fan base.

Tell us who your favorite comedic actress is in the comments.