Actresses Who Can Make Anything Funny

Comedy is a demanding craft that requires impeccable timing and a deep understanding of human nature. Certain actresses possess a natural talent for finding humor in every situation regardless of the script or setting. These performers have built distinguished careers by transforming ordinary moments into memorable comedic sequences through their unique delivery and physicality. This list highlights some of the most influential women in entertainment who consistently deliver laughter to their audiences across various mediums.

Catherine O’Hara

Catherine O’Hara is a legendary Canadian actress who gained widespread recognition for her work on ‘SCTV’ and in several Christopher Guest films. She became a cultural icon for her role as Moira Rose in the sitcom ‘Schitt’s Creek’ where her unique accent and dramatic delivery captivated audiences worldwide. Her career spans decades of character acting in films like ‘Beetlejuice’ and ‘Home Alone’ where she displayed remarkable versatility. She is celebrated for her ability to find humor in eccentric characters through precise physical comedy and vocal inflection.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph rose to prominence as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she showcased her incredible range of impressions and original characters. She has transitioned into a successful film career with standout roles in comedies like ‘Bridesmaids’ and ‘Grown Ups’. Her voice acting work in projects such as ‘Big Mouth’ demonstrates her ability to deliver laughs through vocal performance alone. Rudolph is known for her fearless approach to comedy and her talent for musical parodies that often become viral sensations.

Melissa McCarthy

Melissa McCarthy became a major movie star following her breakout performance in the hit film ‘Bridesmaids’. She has since headlined numerous successful comedies including ‘Spy’ and ‘The Heat’ while earning multiple Academy Award nominations. Her style often involves high energy physical comedy and a willingness to commit fully to absurd situations. Beyond her film work McCarthy received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Molly Flynn on the television series ‘Mike and Molly’.

Kristen Wiig

Kristen Wiig is widely regarded as one of the most talented performers to ever appear on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She co-wrote and starred in the massive comedy hit ‘Bridesmaids’ which earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Wiig excels at playing socially awkward or deeply flawed characters with a sense of vulnerability that makes them relatable. Her diverse filmography includes everything from animated hits like ‘Despicable Me’ to indie dramas that still showcase her comedic roots.

Tina Fey

Tina Fey changed the landscape of television comedy as the first female head writer of ‘Saturday Night Live’. she went on to create and star in the critically acclaimed series ’30 Rock’ where she played the overworked writer Liz Lemon. Fey is also responsible for writing the screenplay for ‘Mean Girls’ which remains a cultural touchstone for its sharp wit. Her brand of humor often balances intelligent social commentary with relatable personal observations about professional life and modern womanhood.

Amy Poehler

Amy Poehler is best known for her iconic portrayal of Leslie Knope on the long running sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She spent many years as a lead performer on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she co-anchored the ‘Weekend Update’ segment. Poehler has also found success in film with roles in ‘Mean Girls’ and the animated feature ‘Inside Out’. She is a co-founder of the Upright Citizens Brigade which has been instrumental in training the next generation of comedic talent.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus

Julia Louis-Dreyfus holds the record for the most Emmy Awards won by a single performer for the same role. She became a household name playing Elaine Benes on ‘Seinfeld’ before starring in ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’. Her performance as Selina Meyer on ‘Veep’ is considered one of the greatest comedic portrayals in television history. She is praised for her incredible physical timing and her ability to make even the most cynical characters deeply funny.

Jennifer Coolidge

Jennifer Coolidge has experienced a massive career resurgence thanks to her award winning role in ‘The White Lotus’. She first became famous for her roles in ‘American Pie’ and the ‘Legally Blonde’ franchise where she played scene stealing characters. Her deadpan delivery and unique vocal stylings have made her a favorite in mockumentaries like ‘Best in Show’. Coolidge possesses a rare ability to turn a simple line of dialogue into a comedic highlight through her specific timing.

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza first gained attention for her role as the deadpan April Ludgate on ‘Parks and Recreation’. Since then she has explored a wide range of roles in films like ‘Ingrid Goes West’ and ‘Emily the Criminal’. Plaza is known for her dry wit and an offbeat public persona that often blurs the lines between performance and reality. Her ability to find humor in dark or uncomfortable situations has established her as a unique voice in modern comedy.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross earned widespread acclaim for her starring role as Rainbow Johnson on the hit series ‘Black-ish’. Before that success she led the cast of ‘Girlfriends’ for eight seasons where she displayed her comedic timing. Ross is known for her expressive facial expressions and her talent for physical comedy that feels grounded in reality. She has won multiple awards for her television work and continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.

Cecily Strong

Cecily Strong was a mainstay on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for over a decade where she created many memorable characters. She co-anchored ‘Weekend Update’ and became known for her versatile impressions of political figures and celebrities. Strong also starred in the musical comedy series ‘Schuchadoon’ where she showcased her singing talents alongside her humor. Her ability to ground even the most ridiculous premises in emotional truth makes her a standout performer.

Kate McKinnon

Kate McKinnon is celebrated for her transformative performances and surreal character work on ‘Saturday Night Live’. She won multiple Emmy Awards for her contributions to the show and her unforgettable impressions of various public figures. McKinnon has appeared in major films like the ‘Ghostbusters’ reboot and ‘Barbie’ where she brought her signature energy to the big screen. Her comedic style is often characterized by intense commitment and an uncanny ability to manipulate her voice and body.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones brought a bold and energetic presence to ‘Saturday Night Live’ during her tenure as a writer and cast member. She gained further fame for her role in the 2016 ‘Ghostbusters’ film and her hilarious social media commentary during the Olympics. Jones has headlined several stand up specials where she shares raw and honest stories about her life experiences. Her loud and proud comedic style makes her an unmistakable force in every project she joins.

Rose Byrne

Rose Byrne is a versatile actress who surprised many with her comedic prowess in films like ‘Get Him to the Greek’. She delivered a standout performance in ‘Bridesmaids’ as the competitive Helen and continued her comedy streak in the ‘Neighbors’ franchise. Byrne often plays the straight man to more eccentric characters while still landing significant laughs of her own. Her work in the series ‘Physical’ demonstrates her ability to blend dark comedy with intense character study.

Anna Faris

Anna Faris became a comedy star through her leading role in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise where she parodied horror tropes. She starred in the sitcom ‘Mom’ for seven seasons playing a woman navigating recovery and family life. Faris is known for her bubbly persona and her fearlessness when it comes to slapstick humor. Her performance in ‘The House Bunny’ solidified her status as a leading lady capable of carrying a major studio comedy.

Carol Burnett

Carol Burnett is a pioneer of television comedy who broke barriers with her variety program ‘The Carol Burnett Show’. She is famous for her slapstick abilities and her talent for creating recurring characters that resonated with millions of viewers. Her career has spanned over six decades including Broadway performances and roles in classic films like ‘Annie’. Burnett remains an inspiration for generations of comedians who admire her work ethic and natural funny bones.

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball is arguably the most influential woman in the history of television comedy. Her work on ‘I Love Lucy’ revolutionized the sitcom format and showcased her unparalleled talent for physical humor. She was a savvy business woman who co-founded Desilu Productions and became the first woman to run a major television studio. Ball’s legacy lives on through her timeless episodes which continue to make audiences laugh today.

Madeline Kahn

Madeline Kahn was a frequent collaborator of Mel Brooks and appeared in classics like ‘Blazing Saddles’ and ‘Young Frankenstein’. She was known for her operatic voice and her ability to play high strung or eccentric characters with great comedic effect. Kahn received two Academy Award nominations during her career and won a Tony Award for her stage work. Her unique comedic timing and vocal range made her one of the most distinctive performers of her era.

Parker Posey

Parker Posey earned the title of Queen of the Indies for her frequent appearances in independent films during the 1990s. She is a mainstay in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries including ‘Waiting for Guffman’ and ‘A Mighty Wind’. Posey has a gift for playing pretentious or quirky characters with a sense of sincerity that makes them hilarious. Her extensive career also includes roles in television series like ‘Lost in Space’ and ‘The Staircase’.

Betty White

Betty White enjoyed one of the longest careers in television history and remained a comedic force until her passing. She is beloved for her roles as Sue Ann Nivens on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ and Rose Nylund on ‘The Golden Girls’. White was known for her sharp wit and her ability to deliver double entendres with a sweet and innocent smile. She experienced a late career surge in popularity after a viral campaign led to her hosting ‘Saturday Night Live’.

Molly Shannon

Molly Shannon became a star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she introduced high energy characters like Mary Katherine Gallagher. She has since appeared in many films including ‘Talladega Nights’ and ‘Other People’ which earned her critical praise. Shannon is known for her total physical commitment to her roles and her ability to find humor in desperation. Her recent work on ‘The Other Two’ showcases her continued relevance in the modern comedy landscape.

Kathryn Hahn

Kathryn Hahn spent many years as a reliable supporting actress before becoming a lead star in her own right. She delivered hilarious performances in ‘Step Brothers’ and ‘Bad Moms’ while maintaining a presence in prestige television. Her role as Agatha Harkness in the Marvel Cinematic Universe allowed her to blend villainy with campy humor to great success. Hahn is often praised for her ability to play relatable and messy characters who feel authentically funny.

Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Phoebe Waller-Bridge gained international fame for creating and starring in the groundbreaking comedy series ‘Fleabag’. She also served as the showrunner for the first season of ‘Killing Eve’ and contributed to the script of the James Bond film ‘No Time to Die’. Her comedic style often involves breaking the fourth wall and sharing intimate or taboo thoughts with the audience. She has won multiple Emmy and Golden Globe awards for her innovative contributions to television.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson rose to fame through her viral videos on social media before transitioning to traditional television. She created and stars in the mockumentary sitcom ‘Abbott Elementary’ which has revitalized the network comedy format. Brunson’s humor is often grounded in the everyday struggles of teachers and the charms of her hometown of Philadelphia. Her writing and acting have earned her numerous accolades including Emmy Awards for both performance and production.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae first caught the attention of audiences with her web series ‘The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl’. This led to the creation of the hit HBO series ‘Insecure’ which explored the lives of young Black women in Los Angeles with wit and heart. Rae has since expanded her career into film with roles in ‘The Lovebirds’ and ‘Barbie’. Her comedic voice is defined by its honesty and its focus on the awkwardness of navigating modern social dynamics.

Natasha Lyonne

Natasha Lyonne started her career as a child actress before finding success in films like ‘American Pie’ and ‘But I’m a Cheerleader’. She experienced a major career comeback with her role in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ and the creation of her own series ‘Russian Doll’. Lyonne is known for her raspy voice and her tough but vulnerable persona that lends itself well to dark comedy. Her recent work in ‘Poker Face’ continues to showcase her unique timing and charismatic screen presence.

Mindy Kaling

Mindy Kaling first made a name for herself as a writer and performer on the American version of ‘The Office’. She went on to create and star in ‘The Mindy Project’ which followed the life of a romantic comedy obsessed doctor. Kaling has also written several best selling books and produced popular shows like ‘Never Have I Ever’. Her humor often revolves around pop culture and the complexities of modern dating and professional life.

Amy Schumer

Amy Schumer became a household name through her stand up specials and her sketch comedy show ‘Inside Amy Schumer’. She wrote and starred in the hit film ‘Trainwreck’ which showcased her ability to lead a romantic comedy with a modern twist. Schumer is known for her provocative and self deprecating humor that often addresses social issues and gender roles. She continues to be a prominent voice in comedy through her various television projects and live tours.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish had a massive breakout role in the 2017 comedy ‘Girls Trip’ which turned her into an overnight sensation. She has since starred in several films including ‘Night School’ and provided voices for animated projects like ‘The Lego Movie 2’. Haddish is famous for her infectious energy and her candid storytelling style during interviews and stand up performances. She became the first Black female stand up comedian to host ‘Saturday Night Live’ in its long history.

Rebel Wilson

Rebel Wilson gained international recognition for her role as Fat Amy in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ film franchise. The Australian actress is known for her physical comedy and her ability to improvise hilarious lines of dialogue. She has starred in several romantic comedies including ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ and ‘How to Be Single’. Wilson often plays confident and outspoken characters who provide the comedic heart of the stories they inhabit.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes is a veteran stand up comedian who has successfully transitioned into film and television acting. She earned an Emmy Award for her writing on ‘The Chris Rock Show’ and appeared in popular sitcoms like ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’. Sykes is known for her distinctive voice and her sharp political and social commentary. She has also voiced many animated characters and stars in the Netflix sitcom ‘The Upshaws’.

Niecy Nash-Betts

Niecy Nash first became a favorite among comedy fans for her role as Deputy Raineesha Williams on ‘Reno 911!’. She has shown great range by starring in the comedy drama ‘Claws’ and the sitcom ‘The Soul Man’. Nash is celebrated for her vibrant personality and her ability to bring humor to both broad comedies and more serious projects. Her recent work in ‘Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ earned her critical acclaim while she continues to host various television programs.

Jane Lynch

Jane Lynch is a versatile performer who became a star through her role as Sue Sylvester on the musical series ‘Glee’. She is a frequent member of Christopher Guest’s ensemble cast appearing in films like ‘Best in Show’ and ‘For Your Consideration’. Lynch has won multiple Emmy Awards for her acting and for hosting the game show ‘Hollywood Game Night’. Her dry delivery and commanding presence make her one of the most reliable comedic actresses in the industry.

Jennifer Saunders

Jennifer Saunders is a titan of British comedy best known for creating and starring in ‘Absolutely Fabulous’. She was one half of the famous comedy duo French and Saunders which produced a long running sketch show. Saunders has also found success in film as the voice of the Fairy Godmother in ‘Shrek 2’. Her comedic style often involves parodies of high society and the fashion industry with a focus on eccentric characters.

Dawn French

Dawn French is an iconic British comedian who gained fame alongside Jennifer Saunders in their sketch comedy partnership. She is perhaps best known for her leading role as Geraldine Granger in the beloved sitcom ‘The Vicar of Dibley’. French has appeared in numerous stage productions and written several best selling books throughout her career. She is admired for her warmth and her talent for character based comedy that appeals to a wide audience.

Diane Keaton

Diane Keaton is an Academy Award winning actress who became a comedy legend through her collaborations with Woody Allen. Her performance in ‘Annie Hall’ remains one of the most influential comedic turns in cinema history. Keaton has continued to star in successful comedies like ‘Father of the Bride’ and ‘The First Wives Club’. She is known for her quirky fashion sense and her ability to portray intellectual yet scatterbrained characters with great charm.

Goldie Hawn

Goldie Hawn rose to fame as a cast member on ‘Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In’ before becoming a major film star. she won an Oscar for her role in ‘Cactus Flower’ and headlined classics like ‘Private Benjamin’ and ‘Overboard’. Hawn is famous for her infectious giggle and her talent for playing the lovable blonde who is smarter than she appears. Her career has spanned several decades and she remains a beloved figure in the entertainment world.

Bette Midler

Bette Midler is a multitalented performer who has excelled in music and film comedy throughout her career. She starred in the cult classic ‘Hocus Pocus’ and the hit comedy ‘The First Wives Club’ alongside Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn. Midler is known for her brassy personality and her ability to deliver both physical gags and sharp dialogue. She has won multiple awards including Grammys and Tonys for her diverse contributions to the performing arts.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin began her career in stand up and television sketch comedy before becoming a celebrated film and stage actress. She is famous for her recurring characters like Edith Ann and Ernestine which she introduced on ‘Laugh-In’. Tomlin has starred in classics like ‘9 to 5’ and recently enjoyed a long run on the sitcom ‘Grace and Frankie’. Her comedic style is often intelligent and observational with a focus on social commentary and character study.

Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda is a legendary actress who proved her comedic timing in the hit film ‘9 to 5’. She experienced a late career resurgence in comedy by starring alongside Lily Tomlin in the series ‘Grace and Frankie’. Fonda has appeared in several romantic comedies including ‘Monster-in-Law’ and ‘Book Club’ which were box office successes. Despite her history in dramatic roles she possesses a sharp wit and a natural ability to land comedic beats.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg is one of the few performers to have won an EGOT which includes an Emmy and Oscar and Grammy and Tony. She became a comedy superstar with her role in ‘Sister Act’ and her Academy Award winning turn in ‘Ghost’. Goldberg has a background in stand up comedy which informed her early solo performances on Broadway. She has spent many years as a moderator on ‘The View’ while continuing to act in various film and television projects.

Jean Smart

Jean Smart has had a distinguished career in television starting with her breakout role on the sitcom ‘Designing Women’. She recently experienced a massive wave of acclaim for her starring role in the comedy series ‘Hacks’. Smart has won multiple Emmy Awards across several decades for her work in shows like ‘Frasier’ and ‘Samantha Who?’. She is praised for her sophisticated comedic timing and her ability to play complex and often formidable women.

Cloris Leachman

Cloris Leachman was a prolific actress who won eight Primetime Emmy Awards during her long career. She is best remembered for her roles as Phyllis Lindstrom on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ and Frau Blücher in ‘Young Frankenstein’. Leachman continued to work in comedy into her nineties starring in the sitcom ‘Raising Hope’. Her fearlessness and willingness to look ridiculous for a laugh made her a favorite among directors and audiences alike.

Sarah Silverman

Sarah Silverman is a provocative stand up comedian who has starred in her own sketch program ‘The Sarah Silverman Program’. She has appeared in many films like ‘School of Rock’ and voiced the lead character Vanellope in the ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ franchise. Silverman is known for her satirical humor that addresses controversial topics with a deadpan and often childish delivery. She has received multiple Emmy Awards for her television work and remains a significant figure in stand up.

Ali Wong

Ali Wong became a massive comedy star following the success of her Netflix stand up specials ‘Baby Cobra’ and ‘Hard Knock Wife’. She wrote and starred in the romantic comedy ‘Always Be My Maybe’ which became a hit for the streaming platform. Wong also starred in the critically acclaimed series ‘Beef’ which blended dark humor with intense drama. Her comedy often focuses on her personal life and family with an unfiltered and relatable perspective.

Awkwafina

Awkwafina first gained fame as a rapper and internet personality before transitioning into major film roles. She had scene stealing performances in ‘Ocean’s 8’ and ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ which showcased her comedic talent. She won a Golden Globe for her leading role in ‘The Farewell’ which balanced humor with deep emotional themes. Awkwafina also created and stars in the semi-autobiographical comedy series ‘Nora from Queens’ on Comedy Central.

Chelsea Peretti

Chelsea Peretti is a stand up comedian and writer who is best known for her role as Gina Linetti on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. Her character was famous for her extreme confidence and hilarious one liners that often mocked her coworkers. Peretti has written for shows like ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘Saturday Night Live’ before finding success as an actress. Her unique comedic voice is characterized by a mix of absurdity and biting social observation.

Retta

Retta became a fan favorite for her portrayal of Donna Meagle on the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. She brought her signature style and comedic timing to the role which included the famous Treat Yo Self catchphrase. Retta transitioned into a lead dramatic role with comedic elements in the series ‘Good Girls’. She continues to be a prominent voice in entertainment through her acting and her popular social media presence.

Stephanie Beatriz

Stephanie Beatriz is best known for her role as the tough and dry witted Rosa Diaz on ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’. She showcased her versatility by voicing the lead character Mirabel in the Disney animated hit ‘Encanto’. Beatriz has also appeared in the musical film ‘In the Heights’ and several independent projects. Her ability to play a deadpan character while still conveying deep emotion and humor is a testament to her acting skill.

Megan Mullally

Megan Mullally is iconic for her portrayal of the wealthy and eccentric Karen Walker on the sitcom ‘Will and Grace’. She won two Emmy Awards for the role and returned for the show’s successful revival years later. Mullally is also a talented singer and has appeared in many Broadway productions throughout her career. Her distinct voice and talent for playing larger than life characters have made her a staple of television comedy for decades.

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