The 50 Greatest Comedy Actors Who Have Passed Away

The history of comedy in film and television has been shaped by legendary performers whose timing, physicality, and wit redefined the genre. These actors transitioned from vaudeville stages and stand-up clubs to become household names, leaving behind legacies that continue to influence modern humor. From the silent era to the golden age of sitcoms, their contributions have provided essential social commentary and universal entertainment. This list honors those iconic comedic figures who are no longer with us but whose work remains foundational to the industry.

Robin Williams

Robin Williams rose to prominence with his improvisational brilliance on the television series ‘Mork & Mindy’. He transitioned into a major film star with lead roles in iconic comedies such as ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘The Birdcage’. Beyond comedy, Williams earned critical acclaim and an Academy Award for his dramatic turn in ‘Good Will Hunting’. His career was characterized by a unique ability to blend high-energy manic humor with deep emotional vulnerability. He is widely considered one of the most versatile performers in the history of the entertainment industry.

Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was a central figure of the silent film era through his screen persona, the Little Tramp. He co-founded United Artists, giving him complete control over his cinematic productions such as ‘City Lights’ and ‘Modern Times’. Chaplin used physical comedy and slapstick to address serious social and political themes, most notably in ‘The Great Dictator’. His influence on film grammar and comedic timing persists in the work of modern filmmakers. He remains a global icon of the 20th century for his contributions to both acting and directing.

Lucille Ball

Lucille Ball became a television pioneer with the massive success of her sitcom ‘I Love Lucy’. As the first woman to run a major television studio, Desilu Productions, she broke significant industry barriers. Her performance was defined by masterful physical comedy and a willingness to engage in elaborate sight gags. Ball followed her initial success with ‘The Lucy Show’ and ‘Here’s Lucy’, maintaining her status as a comedy queen for decades. Her technical innovations, such as the three-camera filming technique, revolutionized how sitcoms are produced.

Gene Wilder

Gene Wilder is frequently remembered for his frequent and fruitful collaborations with director Mel Brooks. He starred in comedic landmarks such as ‘The Producers’, ‘Blazing Saddles’, and ‘Young Frankenstein’. Wilder also portrayed the titular character in the 1971 classic ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’, showcasing his signature blend of gentleness and mania. His on-screen partnership with Richard Pryor in films like ‘Silver Streak’ and ‘Stir Crazy’ established them as a premier comedic duo. Wilder’s performances often relied on a subtle, slow-burning intensity that erupted into comedic chaos.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor is often cited as one of the most influential stand-up comedians of all time. He successfully transitioned his provocative and observational stage humor to the big screen in films like ‘Which Way Is Up?’ and ‘Bustin’ Loose’. Pryor’s storytelling often focused on race, class, and his own personal struggles, bringing a raw honesty to mainstream comedy. He won an Emmy Award for his writing on ‘The Lily Tomlin Show’ and multiple Grammy Awards for his comedy albums. His legacy continues to inspire generations of comedians who utilize personal narrative as a comedic tool.

John Candy

John Candy was a prominent member of the Toronto branch of the Second City comedy troupe and a star of ‘SCTV’. He became a beloved figure in Hollywood throughout the 1980s with roles in ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ and ‘Uncle Buck’. Candy was known for his warmth and the relatable, often boisterous characters he portrayed on screen. He also appeared in major hits like ‘Splash’ and ‘Cool Runnings’, demonstrating a wide range of comedic talent. His untimely passing in 1994 was deeply felt by both fans and colleagues across the film industry.

Chris Farley

Chris Farley gained national fame as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’, where he was known for his high-energy physical comedy. He created memorable characters like motivational speaker Matt Foley, which showcased his intense commitment to a bit. Farley successfully moved into feature films with leading roles in ‘Tommy Boy’ and ‘Black Sheep’. His style was often compared to his idol John Belushi, characterized by a mix of loudness and surprising grace. He remains a cult icon for his brief but impactful career in the 1990s.

Buster Keaton

Buster Keaton was a silent film pioneer known for his “Great Stone Face” and incredible physical stunts. He directed and starred in masterpieces such as ‘The General’ and ‘Sherlock Jr.’, which featured groundbreaking special effects. Keaton performed his own dangerous stunts, many of which are still studied for their technical precision today. Unlike his contemporaries, his comedy was often dry and stoic, contrasting with the chaotic environments he inhabited. His work is celebrated for its inventive use of the camera and architectural approach to humor.

George Carlin

George Carlin was a stand-up comedian and actor known for his counterculture views and focus on the English language. He appeared in films like ‘Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure’ as the time-traveling Rufus. Carlin was the first host of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and recorded numerous HBO specials over his long career. His comedy evolved from traditional variety acts to biting social and political commentary. He was a vocal advocate for free speech, notably centered around his “Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television” routine.

Joan Rivers

Joan Rivers was a trailblazing comedian known for her sharp wit and controversial “insult” style of humor. She rose to fame through guest appearances on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson’ and eventually hosted ‘The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers’. Beyond her talk show work, she was a regular on ‘The Celebrity Apprentice’ and a prominent fashion critic. Rivers was known for her tireless work ethic and her ability to find humor in her own personal tragedies. She paved the way for numerous female comedians to enter the male-dominated world of late-night television.

Phil Hartman

Phil Hartman was a versatile actor and writer who spent eight seasons as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He was dubbed “The Glue” for his ability to hold sketches together and his impeccable impressions of figures like Bill Clinton. Hartman also voiced iconic characters on ‘The Simpsons’, including Troy McClure and Lionel Hutz. On television, he starred as the arrogant Bill McNeal in the sitcom ‘NewsRadio’. His career was defined by his smooth delivery and his talent for playing pompous yet hilariously flawed characters.

Gilda Radner

Gilda Radner was one of the original cast members of ‘Saturday Night Live’, where she became a breakout star. She created iconic characters such as Roseanne Roseannadanna and Emily Litella, winning an Emmy Award for her work. Radner also starred in the Broadway one-woman show ‘Gilda Radner: Live from New York’ and films like ‘Hanky Panky’. She was known for her infectious energy and physical commitment to every character she portrayed. Her battle with cancer and subsequent advocacy work left a lasting legacy beyond her comedic contributions.

Peter Sellers

Peter Sellers was a British actor and comedian best known for his chameleon-like ability to transform into diverse characters. He gained international fame as the bumbling Inspector Clouseau in ‘The Pink Panther’ film series. Sellers also delivered a masterclass in versatility by playing three distinct roles in ‘Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb’. His final major performance in ‘Being There’ earned him an Academy Award nomination for its understated brilliance. He is often cited as a major influence on character-based comedy.

Jerry Lewis

Jerry Lewis was a comedian, actor, and director who first found fame as half of the Martin and Lewis duo alongside Dean Martin. He later became a solo superstar with films like ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘The Bellboy’. Lewis was famous for his slapstick humor, “rubber-faced” expressions, and innovative use of the video assist in directing. Beyond his films, he was the long-time host of the ‘Muscular Dystrophy Association’ Labor Day Telethon. His career spanned eight decades, making him a cornerstone of American entertainment.

Stan Laurel

Stan Laurel was one-half of the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, known for his thin frame and befuddled expressions. He was the creative force behind the pair’s gags, often writing and editing their films behind the scenes. Laurel and Hardy made the successful transition from silent films to “talkies” with classics like ‘The Music Box’ and ‘Sons of the Desert’. His character was defined by his innocence and his trademark habit of scratching his head and crying. He received an Honorary Academy Award in 1961 for his creative pioneering in the field of cinema comedy.

Oliver Hardy

Oliver Hardy was the larger, more dignified half of the Laurel and Hardy duo, often playing the “straight man” to Stan Laurel. He was known for his polite mannerisms, frequent “slow burns” toward the camera, and his catchphrase regarding “another nice mess.” Hardy appeared in over 250 films throughout his career, both with Laurel and as a solo performer. His chemistry with Laurel is considered one of the greatest partnerships in film history. Hardy’s graceful physical movement despite his size was a key element of the duo’s visual comedy.

Groucho Marx

Groucho Marx was the leader of the Marx Brothers and a master of quick-witted, pun-heavy dialogue. He starred in comedic masterpieces like ‘Duck Soup’ and ‘A Night at the Opera’, often playing characters with greasepaint mustaches and glasses. Groucho also found immense success as the host of the radio and television game show ‘You Bet Your Life’. His cynical, fast-talking persona became one of the most recognizable archetypes in comedy. He was awarded an honorary Academy Award in 1974 in recognition of his brilliant creativity.

Bob Hope

Bob Hope was an American comedian and actor whose career spanned vaudeville, radio, television, and film. He is particularly famous for his ‘Road to…’ series of comedy films alongside Bing Crosby. Hope was a frequent host of the Academy Awards and was well known for his tireless work entertaining U.S. troops through the USO. His comedic style relied heavily on topical one-liners and self-deprecating humor. He was a fixture in American pop culture for over seven decades.

Betty White

Betty White enjoyed one of the longest careers in television history, spanning over 80 years. She gained early fame on ‘Life with Elizabeth’ and later became a household name on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ as Sue Ann Nivens. White reached a new generation of fans starring as Rose Nylund on the hit sitcom ‘The Golden Girls’. She was known for her sharp comedic timing and her ability to play both cynical and sweet characters with equal skill. Her late-career resurgence included a memorable hosting gig on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and a starring role in ‘Hot in Cleveland’.

Leslie Nielsen

Leslie Nielsen began his career as a dramatic actor before reinventing himself as a deadpan comedy legend. He found a second career path with his role in the 1980 spoof film ‘Airplane!’, which changed the course of his professional life. Nielsen later starred as Detective Frank Drebin in ‘The Naked Gun’ series and the television show ‘Police Squad!’. His ability to deliver absurd dialogue with absolute sincerity became his comedic trademark. He is credited with popularizing the modern spoof genre in Hollywood.

Bernie Mac

Bernie Mac was a stand-up comedian and actor who rose to national prominence as one of ‘The Original Kings of Comedy’. He starred in his own semi-autobiographical sitcom, ‘The Bernie Mac Show’, which earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations. Mac also appeared in high-profile films such as ‘Ocean’s Eleven’ and ‘Bad Santa’. His comedy was known for its blunt honesty and his authoritative yet loving delivery. He remained a beloved figure in the comedy community until his untimely passing in 2008.

Madeline Kahn

Madeline Kahn was an Academy Award-nominated actress known for her comedic work with director Mel Brooks. She delivered iconic performances in ‘Blazing Saddles’, ‘Young Frankenstein’, and ‘High Anxiety’. Kahn was also a celebrated stage actress, winning a Tony Award for ‘The Sisters Rosensweig’. Her comedic style often combined a sophisticated, operatic singing voice with quirky and neurotic character traits. She is remembered as one of the most talented character actresses of her generation.

Mary Tyler Moore

Mary Tyler Moore was a television icon who first gained fame as Laura Petrie on ‘The Dick Van Dyke Show’. She later starred in her own self-titled program, ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’, which broke ground by focusing on a single, professional woman. Moore’s comedic style blended physical humor with a relatable, modern sensibility. She also proved her dramatic range with an Oscar-nominated performance in the film ‘Ordinary People’. Her production company, MTM Enterprises, produced some of the most critically acclaimed shows of the 1970s and 1980s.

Don Knotts

Don Knotts was best known for his role as the high-strung Deputy Barney Fife on ‘The Andy Griffith Show’, for which he won five Emmy Awards. He later starred in several successful family-oriented comedy films like ‘The Ghost and Mr. Chicken’ and ‘The Apple Dumpling Gang’. Knotts was recognized for his physical comedy and his ability to portray nervous, socially awkward characters. He also had a recurring role on ‘Three’s Company’ as the eccentric landlord Ralph Furley. His distinctive voice and bug-eyed expressions made him an instantly recognizable comedic figure.

Garry Shandling

Garry Shandling was a comedian and writer who revolutionized the sitcom format with ‘It’s Garry Shandling’s Show’. He followed this with the critically acclaimed ‘The Larry Sanders Show’, which provided a satirical behind-the-scenes look at late-night talk shows. Shandling was known for his self-analytical, often neurotic comedic persona that blurred the lines between fiction and reality. He served as a mentor to many young comedians and writers throughout his career in Hollywood. His work is credited with influencing the “cringe comedy” and mockumentary styles that became popular in later decades.

John Belushi

John Belushi was an original cast member of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and a dominant force in 1970s comedy. He starred in the comedy classic ‘National Lampoon’s Animal House’ as the chaotic Bluto Blutarsky. Belushi also formed The Blues Brothers with Dan Aykroyd, leading to a successful musical act and a hit feature film. He was known for his explosive physical energy and his ability to commit fully to absurd characters. His influence on the sketch comedy landscape remains profound despite his short life.

Norm Macdonald

Norm Macdonald was a stand-up comedian and actor best known for his stint as the anchor of ‘Weekend Update’ on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He was celebrated for his deadpan delivery, unique cadence, and his refusal to pander to audiences. Macdonald starred in the cult comedy film ‘Dirty Work’ and his own sitcom, ‘The Norm Show’. He was frequently cited by his peers as one of the funniest stand-up comedians of his era. His dry wit and shaggy-dog stories made him a favorite guest on late-night talk shows for years.

Gilbert Gottfried

Gilbert Gottfried was known for his exaggerated, raspy voice and his fearless, often controversial approach to stand-up comedy. He voiced the parrot Iago in Disney’s ‘Aladdin’ and appeared in films like ‘Beverly Hills Cop II’ and ‘Problem Child’. Gottfried was a frequent guest on ‘The Howard Stern Show’ and a staple of celebrity roasts. He maintained a long career in both voice acting and live performance, never shying away from “too soon” humor. His podcast, ‘Gilbert Gottfried’s Amazing Colossal Podcast!’, showcased his deep knowledge of Hollywood history.

Bob Saget

Bob Saget was a versatile entertainer who balanced a wholesome TV image with a notoriously raunchy stand-up career. He became a household name as the father Danny Tanner on the long-running sitcom ‘Full House’. Saget also served as the original host of ‘America’s Funniest Home Videos’, providing comedic narration for viral clips. In the comedy world, he was highly respected for his “blue” humor, which contrasted sharply with his television persona. He reprised his famous role in the sequel series ‘Fuller House’ before his passing in 2022.

Harold Ramis

Harold Ramis was a multitalented writer, director, and actor who helped define modern American comedy. He co-wrote and starred in classics like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Stripes’ and directed the legendary ‘Caddyshack’. Ramis was also the creative force behind ‘Groundhog Day’, a film celebrated for both its humor and its philosophical depth. He was a member of the Second City troupe and a writer for ‘SCTV’ during the early stages of his career. His work often focused on the struggle of the “everyman” against bureaucratic or supernatural forces.

Rik Mayall

Rik Mayall was a driving force in the UK’s alternative comedy scene during the 1980s. He gained international fame for his roles in ‘The Young Ones’, ‘Bottom’, and ‘The New Statesman’. Mayall was known for his intense physical comedy, loud delivery, and manic energy on screen. He also appeared as Lord Flashheart in the ‘Blackadder’ series and starred in the film ‘Drop Dead Fred’. His partnership with Adrian Edmondson was a cornerstone of British television comedy for over two decades.

Bill Hicks

Bill Hicks was a stand-up comedian whose work focused heavily on politics, religion, and social philosophy. Although he achieved significant fame in the UK, he remained a cult figure in the United States during his lifetime. Hicks was known for his dark humor and his desire to challenge his audience’s perceptions of the world. He recorded several influential comedy specials, including ‘Revelations’ and ‘Relentless’. His legacy has grown significantly since his death, with many contemporary comedians citing him as a primary influence.

Andy Kaufman

Andy Kaufman was a performance artist and comedian who consistently defied traditional comedic expectations. He is best known to television audiences for his role as Latka Gravas on the sitcom ‘Taxi’. Kaufman’s “comedy” often involved elaborate pranks, such as his stint as an inter-gender wrestling champion or reading ‘The Great Gatsby’ aloud to audiences. He frequently appeared on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and ‘Late Night with David Letterman’, often blurring the line between his real self and his characters. His life was the subject of the 1999 biographical film ‘Man on the Moon’.

Redd Foxx

Redd Foxx was a pioneering comedian often referred to as the “King of the Party Records” for his hundreds of comedy albums. He gained mainstream television stardom as Fred Sanford on the hit sitcom ‘Sanford and Son’. Foxx was known for his gravelly voice and his “blue” comedy, which paved the way for future generations of Black comedians. He also appeared in films like ‘Harlem Nights’ alongside Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy. His influence on the sitcom genre and stand-up comedy remains foundational.

Don Rickles

Don Rickles, nicknamed “The Merchant of Venom,” was the definitive insult comic of his era. He was a frequent guest on ‘The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson’ and a mainstay of the celebrity roast circuit. Rickles also had a successful acting career, appearing in films like ‘Casino’ and voicing Mr. Potato Head in the ‘Toy Story’ franchise. Despite his harsh comedic persona, he was famously kind-hearted in his personal life and was close friends with many of his targets. His career spanned over sixty years, maintaining relevance across multiple generations.

Rodney Dangerfield

Rodney Dangerfield was a comedian and actor whose “I get no respect” catchphrase became one of the most famous in show business. He didn’t find major success until his 40s, after which he became a regular on ‘The Tonight Show’. Dangerfield starred in classic comedies such as ‘Caddyshack’, ‘Easy Money’, and ‘Back to School’. He was also known for his support of young comedians, often featuring them in his HBO specials. His self-deprecating one-liners and bug-eyed delivery made him a unique fixture in 1980s pop culture.

Sid Caesar

Sid Caesar was a television pioneer whose variety shows ‘Your Show of Shows’ and ‘Caesar’s Hour’ influenced the future of sketch comedy. He led a legendary writing staff that included Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, and Larry Gelbart. Caesar was known for his incredible ability with dialects, double-talk, and pantomime. He also appeared in films such as ‘It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World’ and ‘Grease’. His work is often cited as the direct ancestor of modern programs like ‘Saturday Night Live’.

Bea Arthur

Bea Arthur was an actress and comedian celebrated for her dry wit and commanding presence. She first gained major fame as the title character in ‘Maude’, a spin-off of ‘All in the Family’. Arthur later became an international star as Dorothy Zbornak on the long-running sitcom ‘The Golden Girls’. She won Emmy Awards for both roles and was also a Tony Award-winning stage performer. Her height and deep voice contributed to her ability to deliver devastatingly funny deadpan lines.

Estelle Getty

Estelle Getty became a breakout star later in life for her role as the feisty Sophia Petrillo on ‘The Golden Girls’. Although she was close in age to her co-stars, she utilized heavy makeup to portray the elderly Sicilian matriarch. Getty won both an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her performance on the show. She also appeared in films like ‘Mask’ and ‘Stop! Or My Mom Will Shoot’. Her character’s “Picture it: Sicily…” stories became a signature element of the series’ humor.

Rue McClanahan

Rue McClanahan was an Emmy-winning actress known for her comedic timing and southern charm. She worked with Bea Arthur on ‘Maude’ before reuniting with her for ‘The Golden Girls’ to play the man-hungry Blanche Devereaux. McClanahan had a prolific career in both television and theater, appearing in numerous Broadway productions. Her portrayal of Blanche was central to the show’s dynamic, offering a bold and humorous take on aging and sexuality. She remained active in the industry until her passing in 2010.

Dom DeLuise

Dom DeLuise was a comedic actor and chef known for his frequent collaborations with Burt Reynolds and Mel Brooks. He appeared in popular films such as ‘The Cannonball Run’, ‘Blazing Saddles’, and ‘Spaceballs’. DeLuise was famous for his infectious laugh and his ability to perform slapstick humor with great enthusiasm. He also had a successful career as a voice actor in animated films like ‘The Secret of NIMH’ and ‘All Dogs Go to Heaven’. His persona was often that of a jovial, bumbling sidekick who could steal scenes with ease.

Harvey Korman

Harvey Korman was a versatile sketch comedian best known for his ten seasons on ‘The Carol Burnett Show’. He won four Emmy Awards for his work on the series, where he frequently struggled to keep a straight face during sketches with Tim Conway. Korman also appeared in several Mel Brooks films, most notably as Hedley Lamarr in ‘Blazing Saddles’. His ability to play pomposity and arrogance for laughs made him a valuable comedic asset. He also provided the voice of The Great Gazoo on ‘The Flintstones’.

Tim Conway

Tim Conway was a master of improvisational and physical comedy who gained fame on ‘McHale’s Navy’. He later became a staple of ‘The Carol Burnett Show’, where his unscripted antics often caused his co-stars to break character. Conway was known for creating characters like the “Old Man” and Mr. Tudball. He won six Emmy Awards throughout his career and had his own variety programs. His ability to build a comedic bit through slow, deliberate movement was a hallmark of his style.

Zero Mostel

Zero Mostel was a powerhouse of the stage and screen, best known for originating the role of Max Bialystock in ‘The Producers’. He was a celebrated Broadway performer, winning Tony Awards for ‘A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum’ and ‘Fiddler on the Roof’. Mostel was known for his large physical presence and his ability to shift between explosive energy and subtle humor. Despite being blacklisted during the 1950s, he staged a successful career comeback in the 1960s. He remains one of the most respected character actors in theatrical history.

Cloris Leachman

Cloris Leachman was one of the most decorated actresses in television history, winning eight Primetime Emmy Awards. She gained fame as Phyllis Lindstrom on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ and her own spin-off, ‘Phyllis’. Leachman also delivered an iconic comedic performance as Frau Blücher in Mel Brooks’ ‘Young Frankenstein’. Later in her career, she won over new audiences with her role as Maw Maw on ‘Raising Hope’. She was also an Academy Award winner for her dramatic work in ‘The Last Picture Show’.

Jonathan Winters

Jonathan Winters was a pioneer of improvisational comedy whose style influenced performers like Robin Williams. He was known for his ability to create a vast array of characters and sound effects using only his voice and minimal props. Winters appeared in films like ‘It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World’ and was a frequent guest on late-night talk shows. He also voiced Papa Smurf in ‘The Smurfs’ film series during his later years. His work often felt like a “stream of consciousness” that brought a unique energy to the screen.

Jack Benny

Jack Benny was a master of comedic timing and the “slow burn” reaction. His radio and television program, ‘The Jack Benny Program’, was a cornerstone of American broadcasting for decades. Benny’s comedic persona was that of a miserly, vain man who perpetually claimed to be 39 years old. He utilized silence and pauses as effectively as dialogue to generate laughs. His influence on the sitcom format and the “fourth wall” break is still evident in modern television.

George Burns

George Burns enjoyed a career that spanned vaudeville, radio, television, and film, often performing with his wife Gracie Allen. After her death, he staged a successful solo comeback, winning an Academy Award at age 80 for ‘The Sunshine Boys’. He became famous for his signature cigar, dry wit, and his portrayal of the title character in the ‘Oh, God!’ film series. Burns continued to perform stand-up and make appearances well into his 90s. He remains one of the few entertainers to have achieved success in every major medium of the 20th century.

Gracie Allen

Gracie Allen was the comedic heart of the Burns and Allen duo, known for her “illogical logic” and ditzy persona. She and George Burns transitioned their successful vaudeville act to radio and then to the television series ‘The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show’. Allen’s character was famous for her convoluted explanations that somehow made sense in her own mind. Her retirement from show business in 1958 marked the end of one of comedy’s most beloved partnerships. She is remembered as one of the greatest female comedic performers of the early television era.

Red Skelton

Red Skelton was a prominent comedian and star of ‘The Red Skelton Show’, which aired for twenty years on television. He was known for his pantomime skills and a wide array of characters, including Freddie the Freeloader and Clem Kadiddlehopper. Skelton’s humor was generally family-friendly and relied on his expressive face and physical agility. He was also an accomplished painter and composer outside of his comedic career. Each of his shows famously ended with his signature sign-off, “Good night and may God bless.”

Tell us which of these legendary comedy icons had the greatest impact on your life in the comments.