Black Actresses Who Can Make Anything Funny

Black actresses have long been the backbone of the comedy industry providing unforgettable performances across television and film. These women possess a unique ability to elevate scripts with their timing and physical comedy. From legendary icons to rising stars these performers command the screen with their wit and versatility. This list highlights the talented individuals who consistently bring humor and joy to audiences worldwide.

Whoopi Goldberg

Whoopi Goldberg established herself as a comedic force through her stand up specials and her breakout performance in ‘The Color Purple’. She later won an Academy Award for her role in ‘Ghost’ where she blended supernatural mystery with sharp comedic timing. Goldberg became a household name for her work in ‘Sister Act’ and its successful sequel. Her long tenure on ‘The View’ showcases her ability to use humor while discussing complex social issues.

Wanda Sykes

Wanda Sykes began her career as a writer for ‘The Chris Rock Show’ and earned an Emmy Award for her contributions. She is well known for her distinctive voice and her roles in sitcoms like ‘The New Adventures of Old Christine’. Sykes has released several successful stand up specials that focus on political and social observations. Her performance in the film ‘Monster-in-Law’ highlighted her ability to steal scenes from veteran actors.

Tiffany Haddish

Tiffany Haddish gained widespread recognition for her role in the comedy film ‘Girls Trip’. She has hosted ‘Saturday Night Live’ and won an Emmy Award for her guest appearance. Haddish published a memoir titled ‘The Last Black Unicorn’ which detailed her journey through the foster care system and into comedy. She continues to star in major motion pictures such as ‘Night School’ and ‘Like a Boss’.

Maya Rudolph

Maya Rudolph became a standout performer on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where she was known for her versatile impressions. She transitioned into film with a memorable role in the hit comedy ‘Bridesmaids’. Rudolph has lent her voice to several animated projects including the series ‘Big Mouth’. Her ability to blend physical comedy with musical talent makes her a unique presence in the entertainment industry.

Leslie Jones

Leslie Jones garnered attention as a writer and cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for several seasons. She starred in the 2016 reboot of ‘Ghostbusters’ and brought her energetic comedic style to the ensemble cast. Jones has hosted major awards ceremonies and released a popular stand up special on a major streaming platform. Her social media presence often features humorous commentary on sporting events and television shows.

Issa Rae

Issa Rae rose to prominence with her YouTube series ‘The Mis-Adventures of Awkward Black Girl’. She co-created and starred in the series ‘Insecure’ which explored the nuances of modern social experiences and professional life. Rae has transitioned into film with roles in ‘The Photograph’ and ‘Vengeance’. Her work often focuses on relatable situations and the humor found in everyday interactions.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross earned critical acclaim for her portrayal of Joan Clayton on the long running sitcom ‘Girlfriends’. She followed this success with a leading role in the series ‘Blackish’ where she played Rainbow Johnson. Ross has won multiple awards for her comedic performances and is known for her expressive facial movements. She also executive produced and voiced the lead character in the animated series ‘Jodie’.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph is currently starring in the hit series ‘Abbott Elementary’ as Barbara Howard. She won an Emmy Award for her portrayal of the veteran kindergarten teacher who provides dry humor and wisdom. Ralph has a long history in the industry including her Broadway debut in ‘Dreamgirls’. Her presence adds both gravitas and humor to every production she joins.

Regina Hall

Regina Hall is famous for her role as Brenda Meeks in the ‘Scary Movie’ film franchise. She has demonstrated her comedic range in movies like ‘Girls Trip’ and ‘Little’. Hall often plays characters that balance intelligence with hilarious reactions to chaotic situations. Her performance in the film ‘Support the Girls’ showcased her ability to lead a comedy with heart and nuance.

Quinta Brunson

Quinta Brunson first gained popularity through her viral videos on social media and her work with BuzzFeed. She created and stars in the mockumentary series ‘Abbott Elementary’ where she plays an optimistic teacher. The show has become a critical and commercial success earning her multiple awards for writing and acting. Brunson is recognized for her ability to find humor in the struggles of the public school system.

Mo’Nique

Mo’Nique started her career in stand up comedy before starring in the sitcom ‘The Parkers’. She won an Academy Award for her dramatic turn in ‘Precious’ but remains a staple in the comedy world. Mo’Nique has hosted her own late night talk show and several comedy specials. Her bold and unfiltered approach to humor has earned her a dedicated following over the decades.

Jenifer Lewis

Jenifer Lewis is often referred to as the Mother of Black Hollywood due to her many maternal roles in film and television. She provided the voice for Mama Odie in ‘The Princess and the Frog’ and starred in the series ‘Blackish’. Lewis is known for her high energy and theatrical comedic style. She has also written a memoir that chronicles her life and career in the entertainment business.

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson showed her comedic skills early in her career with a role in ‘Baby Boy’. While she is known for dramatic roles in ‘Empire’ and ‘Hidden Figures’ she often returns to comedy in films like ‘Think Like a Man’. Henson starred in the comedy ‘What Men Want’ where she played a woman who could hear the thoughts of men. Her ability to pivot between intense drama and broad comedy is a testament to her versatility.

Tichina Arnold

Tichina Arnold became a television icon for her role as Pamela James on the sitcom ‘Martin’. She continued her success with a leading role in ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ where she played the matriarch Rochelle. Arnold currently stars in the comedy series ‘The Neighborhood’ alongside Cedric the Entertainer. Her sharp wit and loud personality have made her a fan favorite for years.

Tisha Campbell

Tisha Campbell is widely recognized for her role as Gina Waters in the comedy series ‘Martin’. She also starred as Jay Kyle in the sitcom ‘My Wife and Kids’ where she showcased her physical comedy skills. Campbell has appeared in several ‘House Party’ films and has a background in musical theater. She continues to work in television and frequently appears in guest roles on various comedy shows.

Retta

Retta gained fame for her role as Donna Meagle on the sitcom ‘Parks and Recreation’. Her character became famous for the phrase Treat Yo Self which remains a popular cultural reference. She later starred in the series ‘Good Girls’ which blended crime drama with dark humor. Retta began her career as a stand up comedian and has a background in operatic singing.

Amber Ruffin

Amber Ruffin is a writer and performer who became a standout on ‘Late Night with Seth Meyers’. She eventually hosted her own program called ‘The Amber Ruffin Show’ where she utilized musical numbers and sketches. Ruffin is known for her bubbly personality and her ability to tackle serious topics with a humorous twist. She also co-authored a book about her experiences with racism that uses humor to share important stories.

Nicole Byer

Nicole Byer is a comedian and actress known for hosting the baking competition show ‘Nailed It’. She has appeared in several comedy series including ‘Girl Code’ and her own show ‘Loosely Exactly Nicole’. Byer is a frequent guest on podcasts and has released a successful stand up special. Her self deprecating humor and infectious energy have made her a prominent figure in modern comedy.

Gabourey Sidibe

Gabourey Sidibe earned an Academy Award nomination for her debut role in ‘Precious’. Since then she has showcased her comedic talents in the series ‘Empire’ and ‘American Horror Story’. Sidibe has a recurring role in the comedy ‘Difficult People’ and has appeared in several sketches. Her dry delivery and comedic timing have surprised and delighted audiences who first knew her for drama.

Octavia Spencer

Octavia Spencer won an Academy Award for ‘The Help’ but she frequently appears in comedic roles. She showed her humor in the film ‘Ma’ and in guest spots on sitcoms like ’30 Rock’. Spencer has a talent for playing the straight man in comedic ensembles. Her expressive reactions and grounded performances often serve as the foundation for the humor in her projects.

Sherri Shepherd

Sherri Shepherd is a comedian and actress who served as a co-host on ‘The View’ for several years. She has starred in sitcoms such as ‘Less Than Perfect’ and currently hosts her own daytime talk show. Shepherd is known for her relatable humor and her stories about family and faith. She has also appeared in various films including ‘Beauty Shop’ and ‘Ride Along’.

Marla Gibbs

Marla Gibbs became a television legend for her role as Florence Johnston on ‘The Jeffersons’. She later starred in and produced the sitcom ‘227’ which was a major success in the 1980s. Gibbs has a distinct comedic voice characterized by her sharp tongue and independent spirit. She continues to work in the industry and recently appeared in the series ‘The Neighborhood’.

Jackée Harry

Jackée Harry became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for ‘227’. She is well known for her role as Lisa Landry on the sitcom ‘Sister, Sister’. Harry has a flamboyant and charismatic comedic style that has made her a household name. She currently appears on the soap opera ‘Days of Our Lives’ where she brings her signature humor to the role.

Kim Wayans

Kim Wayans was a key cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. She created memorable characters and impressions that helped define the show’s success. Wayans also starred in the sitcom ‘In the House’ and appeared in the film ‘Don’t Be a Menace to South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood’. She is part of the famous Wayans family of entertainers and has worked as a writer and producer.

Yvonne Orji

Yvonne Orji gained fame for her role as Molly Carter on the HBO series ‘Insecure’. She is also a stand up comedian who has toured internationally and released a special titled ‘Momma I Made It’. Orji often incorporates her Nigerian heritage and her upbringing into her comedic routines. She has appeared in films like ‘Night School’ and continues to develop new projects for television.

Robin Thede

Robin Thede is the creator and star of ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ which features an all Black female cast. She was the first Black woman to be a head writer for a late night talk show with ‘The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore’. Thede has a background in journalism and uses her sharp intellect to craft clever comedic sketches. Her work has been instrumental in providing a platform for other Black actresses in comedy.

Gabrielle Dennis

Gabrielle Dennis is a versatile actress who stars in ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ where she plays multiple characters. She has also appeared in the series ‘The Game’ and played Whitney Houston in a biographical miniseries. Dennis currently stars in the comedy series ‘The Big Door Prize’ on a popular streaming service. Her ability to disappear into various roles makes her a standout in sketch comedy.

Ashley Nicole Black

Ashley Nicole Black is an Emmy winning writer and actress known for her work on ‘Full Frontal with Samantha Bee’. She is a core cast member of ‘A Black Lady Sketch Show’ and has written for the series ‘Ted Lasso’. Black often uses her comedy to highlight social inequities and personal experiences. Her writing and acting contributions have earned her widespread critical acclaim.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph

Da’Vine Joy Randolph received an Academy Award for her dramatic performance in ‘The Holdovers’. However she has consistently shown her comedic prowess in projects like ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ and ‘Only Murders in the Building’. Randolph has a background in classical opera which she sometimes incorporates into her performances. Her ability to play eccentric and grounded characters with equal skill makes her a highly sought after actress.

Ego Nwodim

Ego Nwodim joined the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2018 and has become one of its most prominent stars. She is known for her original characters such as Edith Puthie and her impressions of various celebrities. Nwodim has a background in improvisational comedy from the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. She also hosts a popular segment on the show that focuses on social commentary through a comedic lens.

Ayo Edebiri

Ayo Edebiri is an actress and writer who stars in the hit series ‘The Bear’ and the comedy film ‘Bottoms’. She has written for ‘Big Mouth’ and provides the voice for the character Missy. Edebiri is known for her deadpan delivery and her ability to play socially awkward yet lovable characters. Her rapid rise in the industry is due to her unique comedic voice and her work across different genres.

Janelle James

Janelle James gained widespread recognition for her role as Principal Ava Coleman on ‘Abbott Elementary’. She began her career in stand up comedy and has toured with major acts like Chris Rock. James has a sharp and often irreverent comedic style that contrasts perfectly with the more grounded characters on her show. She has also released a comedy album and appeared in various sketch shows.

Kym Whitley

Kym Whitley has a long career in comedy and is known for her roles in sitcoms like ‘The Parkers’ and ‘Young and Hungry’. She starred in her own reality series titled ‘Raising Whitley’ which followed her life as a single mother. Whitley is a frequent guest on talk shows and has appeared in many comedy films including ‘Next Friday’. Her boisterous personality and relatable stories have made her a staple in the entertainment world.

Loretta Devine

Loretta Devine is a veteran actress who has appeared in numerous comedic and dramatic projects. She starred in the sitcom ‘The Carmichael Show’ and the series ‘Family Reunion’. Devine is known for her sweet voice and her ability to deliver funny lines with a gentle touch. She has won multiple awards for her work and remains one of the most respected actresses in the industry.

Debra Wilson

Debra Wilson was the longest serving original cast member on the sketch comedy show ‘MADtv’. She is famous for her impressions of celebrities like Whitney Houston and Oprah Winfrey. Wilson has a background in voice acting and has contributed to many video games and animated series. Her physical comedy and high energy performances helped define the tone of late night sketch television.

Michelle Buteau

Michelle Buteau is a comedian and actress who stars in the series ‘Survival of the Thickest’ which is based on her book of essays. She has hosted various reality shows including ‘The Circle’ and has released a successful stand up special. Buteau is known for her vibrant personality and her humor regarding body positivity and relationships. She has also appeared in films like ‘Always Be My Maybe’ and ‘Marry Me’.

Phoebe Robinson

Phoebe Robinson is a comedian and author who co-created the popular podcast and HBO specials ‘2 Dope Queens’. She has written several bestselling books that blend personal stories with social commentary and humor. Robinson starred in the series ‘Everything’s Trash’ and has appeared in films like ‘Ibiza’. Her comedy often focuses on pop culture and the experiences of Black women in the modern world.

Jessica Williams

Jessica Williams became the youngest correspondent on ‘The Daily Show’ where she gained fame for her sharp political satire. She co-hosted the ‘2 Dope Queens’ podcast alongside Phoebe Robinson and starred in the film ‘The Incredible Jessica James’. Williams currently stars in the comedy series ‘Shrinking’ where she plays a therapist. Her confident and witty screen presence has established her as a major talent in both television and film.

Sasheer Zamata

Sasheer Zamata was a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ for several seasons where she performed many celebrity impressions. She has released stand up specials and starred in the comedy series ‘Woke’. Zamata is known for her intelligent and observational humor that often explores themes of race and gender. She also serves as a celebrity ambassador for the American Civil Liberties Union and uses her platform to advocate for social justice.

Please share your thoughts on which of these talented women makes you laugh the most in the comments.