The Funniest Hollywood Actors Of All Time Ranked

Laughter has always been a fundamental pillar of the entertainment industry with certain individuals possessing a unique ability to define entire eras of humor. These male actors have mastered various forms of comedy ranging from the subtle nuances of silent films to the high energy improvisation of modern blockbusters. Their contributions have shaped the landscape of cinema and television by creating unforgettable characters and moments that resonate across generations. This list celebrates the performers who have consistently delivered the most laughter to audiences around the globe throughout the history of Hollywood.

Owen Wilson

Owen Wilson established himself as a prominent figure in the modern comedy scene through his distinctive soft spoken delivery and recurring collaborations with director Wes Anderson. He first gained widespread recognition for his work in the heist film ‘Bottle Rocket’ before becoming a mainstay in major studio comedies. His role as a laid back wedding crasher solidified his status as a leading man capable of balancing absurdity with genuine charm. Wilson also reached global audiences as the voice of Lightning McQueen in the popular ‘Cars’ franchise while appearing in the successful ‘Night at the Museum’ series.

John Belushi

John Belushi became a cultural phenomenon during the early years of ‘Saturday Night Live’ with his explosive energy and physical comedy. He translated his television success to the big screen with a legendary performance as Bluto in the college comedy ‘National Lampoon’s Animal House’. His partnership with Dan Aykroyd led to the creation of ‘The Blues Brothers’ which combined musical talent with high stakes comedic action. Belushi remained one of the most influential performers of his era until his career was tragically cut short.

Harold Lloyd

Harold Lloyd was a pioneer of the silent film era who became famous for his glasses character which resonated as a resourceful everyman. He is best remembered for his thrill comedy sequences where he performed dangerous stunts such as hanging from a clock tower in the classic film ‘Safety Last!’. His prolific output during the nineteen twenties made him one of the most successful and popular stars in Hollywood history. Lloyd used precise timing and visual gags to create a brand of humor that influenced generations of physical comedians.

Billy Crystal

Billy Crystal transitioned from a successful career in stand up comedy to become one of the most reliable leading men in Hollywood. He earned critical acclaim for his witty and romantic performance in ‘When Harry Met Sally…’ which remains a definitive entry in the romantic comedy genre. Crystal further demonstrated his comedic range in ‘City Slickers’ and as the voice of Mike Wazowski in the animated hit ‘Monsters, Inc.’. He is also widely recognized for his numerous turns as the host of the Academy Awards where his opening monologues became a staple of the ceremony.

Martin Short

Martin Short is celebrated for his incredible range of eccentric characters and high energy performances across television and film. He first gained fame on ‘SCTV’ and ‘Saturday Night Live’ before starring in the beloved comedy ‘Three Amigos!’ alongside Steve Martin and Chevy Chase. Short continued to showcase his talents in films like ‘Father of the Bride’ where he played the flamboyant wedding planner Franck Eggelhoffer. In recent years he has found renewed success starring in the hit series ‘Only Murders in the Building’.

Chevy Chase

Chevy Chase was the breakout star of the original ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast where he became famous for his deadpan delivery and physical pratfalls. He successfully moved into cinema with leading roles in comedy classics such as ‘Caddyshack’ and ‘Fletch’. His portrayal of Clark Griswold in ‘National Lampoon’s Vacation’ created an iconic figure for the American family comedy genre. Chase remained a prominent figure in the industry for decades including a notable later role in the television series ‘Community’.

Albert Brooks

Albert Brooks is known for his highly intelligent and neurotic brand of humor that often satirizes modern life and the entertainment industry. He wrote and directed several critically acclaimed comedies including ‘Lost in America’ and ‘Modern Romance’ where he also played the lead roles. His performance in ‘Broadcast News’ earned him an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal of a talented but overlooked news reporter. Brooks reached a massive new audience when he provided the voice for Marlin in the animated masterpiece ‘Finding Nemo’.

Rowan Atkinson

Rowan Atkinson achieved international stardom primarily through his portrayal of the nearly silent and bumbling character in ‘Mr. Bean’. His mastery of physical comedy and facial expressions allowed him to communicate humor across cultural and linguistic barriers. Atkinson also demonstrated his verbal wit in the historical comedy series ‘Blackadder’ and the spy parody franchise ‘Johnny English’. His contributions to British and global comedy have made him one of the most recognizable faces in the world of entertainment.

Danny Kaye

Danny Kaye was a multitalented performer of the Golden Age of Hollywood known for his rapid fire delivery and physical agility. He starred in several musical comedies such as ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’ and the holiday favorite ‘White Christmas’. His performance in ‘The Court Jester’ is often cited as a masterpiece of wordplay and comedic timing particularly the famous pellet with the poison routine. Kaye was also celebrated for his humanitarian work and his ability to entertain audiences of all ages with his whimsical style.

Chris Rock

Chris Rock rose from the world of stand up comedy to become a major force in Hollywood through his sharp social commentary and energetic delivery. He gained national attention as a cast member on ‘Saturday Night Live’ before releasing a series of highly successful comedy specials. Rock has starred in various films including ‘Down to Earth’ and ‘The Longest Yard’ while also providing the voice for Marty the zebra in ‘Madagascar’. He created and narrated the popular semi autobiographical sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris’ which showcased his talent for storytelling.

Dick Van Dyke

Dick Van Dyke is a legendary figure in American comedy who became a household name with his self titled television show in the nineteen sixties. He is renowned for his extraordinary physical comedy skills which he put to great use in films like ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’. His ability to blend slapstick with a charming and wholesome persona made him a favorite among families for decades. Van Dyke has remained active in the industry well into his nineties continuing to bring joy to audiences through various guest appearances.

Cary Grant

Cary Grant was the definitive leading man of the screwball comedy era known for his suave demeanor and impeccable timing. He delivered classic performances in films such as ‘The Philadelphia Story’ and ‘Bringing Up Baby’ where he often played the sophisticated foil to eccentric characters. Grant showed his range by tackling darker comedic elements in ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’ and ‘His Girl Friday’. His enduring legacy is built on a unique ability to maintain elegance while participating in absurd and fast paced comedic scenarios.

Bob Hope

Bob Hope was a cornerstone of American entertainment for over seven decades as a radio star and movie actor and television personality. He is perhaps best known for the series of ‘Road to…’ films he made with Bing Crosby which relied on their chemistry and witty banter. Hope was famous for his rapid fire one liners and his tireless commitment to entertaining American troops overseas. His influence on the format of modern comedy and late night television remains a significant part of Hollywood history.

Andy Samberg

Andy Samberg emerged as a leading comedic talent through his work with The Lonely Island and his tenure on ‘Saturday Night Live’. He helped modernize the sketch show with the introduction of Digital Shorts which became early viral sensations on the internet. Samberg successfully transitioned to a starring role in the police comedy ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ where he played the talented but immature Detective Jake Peralta. His work in films like ‘Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping’ and ‘Palm Springs’ continues to showcase his penchant for absurd and satirical humor.

Jason Bateman

Jason Bateman developed a reputation as one of the best straight men in comedy through his work in both television and film. He experienced a major career resurgence with his role as Michael Bluth in the critically acclaimed series ‘Arrested Development’. Bateman has since starred in a string of successful big screen comedies including ‘Horrible Bosses’ and ‘Game Night’. His dry wit and ability to react to the chaos around him have made him a staple of modern ensemble comedies.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds became a global superstar by leaning into a self aware and sarcastic comedic style that redefined the superhero genre. After years of appearing in various romantic comedies and sitcoms he found his signature role as the title character in ‘Deadpool’. The massive success of the franchise allowed him to bring his unique brand of humor to other projects like ‘Free Guy’ and ‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’. Reynolds is now recognized as one of the most bankable and funny leading men in contemporary Hollywood.

Zach Galifianakis

Zach Galifianakis shifted from an underground stand up comedian to a mainstream star following his breakout performance in ‘The Hangover’. His portrayal of the eccentric Alan Garner became the focal point of the franchise and established him as a master of awkward humor. He further expanded his reach with the surreal talk show parody ‘Between Two Ferns’ which featured interviews with major celebrities and politicians. Galifianakis has also earned praise for his more grounded comedic work in the television series ‘Baskets’.

Vince Vaughn

Vince Vaughn became a leading figure of the nineteen nineties and two thousands comedy scene with his fast talking and charismatic persona. He first gained attention in the indie hit ‘Swingers’ before starring in massive commercial successes like ‘Old School’ and ‘Wedding Crashers’. Vaughn often played characters who used relentless banter to navigate social situations and professional challenges. His roles in ‘Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story’ and ‘The Break-Up’ solidified his status as a key member of the era’s dominant comedy group.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill quickly rose to fame with his performance in the teen comedy ‘Superbad’ which became a cultural touchstone for a generation. He demonstrated his versatility by transitioning from raunchy comedies to more sophisticated roles in films like ’21 Jump Street’ and its sequel. Hill earned Academy Award nominations for his work in ‘Moneyball’ and ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’ proving he could balance humor with dramatic depth. His career trajectory has seen him move from a young comedic actor to a respected director and producer in the industry.

Dan Aykroyd

Dan Aykroyd was a foundational member of the original ‘Saturday Night Live’ cast where he created several iconic characters and sketches. He co wrote and starred in ‘The Blues Brothers’ which became a cult classic and a major musical success. Aykroyd also played a crucial role in the creation of ‘Ghostbusters’ as both a lead actor and a primary screenwriter. His ability to blend technical jargon with dry humor has made his performances uniquely memorable throughout his long career.

Rick Moranis

Rick Moranis became a beloved figure in nineteen eighties comedy through a series of roles that played on his nerdy and unassuming persona. He gained fame on ‘SCTV’ before starring in massive hits such as ‘Ghostbusters’ and the ‘Honey, I Shrunk the Kids’ franchise. Moranis delivered a standout performance as Dark Helmet in the Star Wars parody ‘Spaceballs’ which showcased his talent for physical and satirical humor. After a long hiatus from acting to focus on his family he remains a cherished icon of classic Hollywood comedy.

Paul Rudd

Paul Rudd has maintained a consistent presence in Hollywood for decades thanks to his youthful charm and talent for improvisational comedy. He first became known for his role in ‘Clueless’ before becoming a frequent collaborator with producer Judd Apatow in films like ‘Anchorman’ and ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’. Rudd successfully made the leap to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Ant-Man where he brought a comedic sensibility to the blockbuster action genre. He is widely regarded as one of the most likable and enduring actors in the industry today.

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart built a massive global following through his high energy stand up specials before becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest box office draws. He often plays the frantic and fast talking foil to larger co stars in successful pairings like those seen in ‘Ride Along’ and ‘Central Intelligence’. Hart took on a major role in the reimagined ‘Jumanji’ franchise which reached audiences of all ages around the world. His tireless work ethic and ability to poke fun at his own stature have made him a dominant figure in modern comedy.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen became the face of a new wave of comedy in the mid two thousands following his roles in ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’ and ‘Knocked Up’. He wrote and starred in the hit film ‘Superbad’ which was based on his own experiences and helped launch several major careers. Rogen has continued to produce and star in popular comedies such as ‘Pineapple Express’ and ‘This Is the End’ often focusing on themes of friendship and stoner culture. He has also expanded his career into voice acting and directing while remaining a central figure in the genre.

Sacha Baron Cohen

Sacha Baron Cohen is known for his fearless and immersive approach to comedy which often involves interacting with real people while in character. He created a series of iconic personas including Ali G and the Kazakh journalist Borat whose mockumentary film became a global sensation. Cohen followed this success with other characters like the flamboyant fashionista Bruno and the lead in ‘The Dictator’. His work frequently uses satire to expose social and political prejudices through absurd and often controversial situations.

Danny DeVito

Danny DeVito first became a household name for his role as the abrasive dispatcher Louie De Palma on the hit television series ‘Taxi’. He successfully transitioned to a major film career starring in hits like ‘Twins’ and ‘Ruthless People’ while also directing projects such as ‘The War of the Roses’. DeVito portrayed the villainous Penguin in ‘Batman Returns’ which showcased his ability to blend comedy with darker theatrical elements. In recent years he has gained a whole new generation of fans for his long running role in the sitcom ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’.

Oliver Hardy

Oliver Hardy was one half of the legendary Laurel and Hardy duo which defined the slapstick era of Hollywood comedy. He typically played the pompous and easily frustrated character who often looked directly at the camera to seek sympathy from the audience. His chemistry with Stan Laurel was unparalleled leading to a career that spanned from silent films to the talkie era. Hardy’s physical presence and expressive reactions were essential components of their enduring comedic success.

Stan Laurel

Stan Laurel was the creative mastermind behind the Laurel and Hardy partnership as he wrote much of their material and oversaw the editing of their films. He played the innocent and often dim witted character whose unintentional actions usually caused chaos for his partner. Laurel’s mastery of physical comedy and sight gags helped the duo become the most successful comedy team in history. His dedication to the craft of comedy influenced countless performers who followed in his footsteps.

Groucho Marx

Groucho Marx was the leader of the Marx Brothers and a master of the quick witted insult and pun. He became famous for his painted on mustache and eyebrows and cigar and distinctive crouched walk. Along with his brothers he starred in comedy masterpieces like ‘Duck Soup’ and ‘A Night at the Opera’ which featured anarchic humor and biting satire. Groucho later enjoyed a second career as the host of the quiz show ‘You Bet Your Life’ where his improvisational skills were on full display.

Jerry Lewis

Jerry Lewis was known as the King of Comedy for his zany and high energy physical antics that made him a superstar in the nineteen fifties and sixties. He first gained fame as part of a duo with Dean Martin before embarking on a highly successful solo career. Lewis wrote and directed and starred in several classics including ‘The Nutty Professor’ and ‘The Bellboy’. His influence extended far beyond acting as he was also a pioneer in film technology and a dedicated humanitarian.

Ben Stiller

Ben Stiller was a central member of the Frat Pack group of actors who dominated the comedy landscape during the nineteen nineties and early two thousands. He starred in several massive hits including ‘There’s Something About Mary’ and the ‘Meet the Parents’ franchise. Stiller also showcased his talents as a writer and director with the satirical comedy ‘Zoolander’ and the action parody ‘Tropic Thunder’. His career has been marked by a consistent ability to create memorable characters and successful commercial films.

Jack Black

Jack Black is a powerhouse of comedic energy known for his physical style and his background as a musician with the band Tenacious D. He delivered a career defining performance in ‘School of Rock’ where he played a struggling musician who becomes a substitute teacher. Black has appeared in a wide variety of successful comedies including ‘Nacho Libre’ and the ‘Jumanji’ sequels. He also reached a massive international audience as the voice of the title character in the ‘Kung Fu Panda’ series.

Chris Farley

Chris Farley was a legendary physical comedian who brought an unmatched intensity and vulnerability to his performances. He became a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ where he created unforgettable characters such as the motivational speaker Matt Foley. Farley transitioned to a successful film career with leading roles in the comedies ‘Tommy Boy’ and ‘Black Sheep’. His sudden passing left a significant void in the world of comedy as he was considered one of the most naturally gifted performers of his generation.

Mike Myers

Mike Myers became a major movie star by creating and portraying some of the most iconic comedic characters in Hollywood history. He first gained fame on ‘Saturday Night Live’ before bringing Wayne Campbell to the big screen in ‘Wayne’s World’. Myers later created the global phenomenon ‘Austin Powers’ where he played both the hero and the villain in a series of successful spy parodies. He also provided the voice for the title character in the ‘Shrek’ franchise which became one of the most successful animated series of all time.

John Candy

John Candy was a beloved figure in Hollywood known for his immense warmth and his impeccable sense of comedic timing. He rose to prominence through the Canadian sketch show ‘SCTV’ before starring in classic nineteen eighties comedies such as ‘Splash’ and ‘Spaceballs’. His performance in ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ alongside Steve Martin is often cited as one of the greatest comedic pairings in cinema history. Candy’s ability to blend slapstick humor with genuine heart made him a favorite among audiences and fellow actors alike.

Leslie Nielsen

Leslie Nielsen underwent a remarkable career transformation from a serious dramatic actor to a legendary figure in the world of spoof comedy. His deadpan delivery in the film ‘Airplane!’ redefined his career and paved the way for the successful ‘Naked Gun’ franchise. Nielsen played the bumbling detective Frank Drebin with such unwavering sincerity that the surrounding absurdity became even funnier. He remained a staple of the parody genre for decades proving that a straight face can be a comedian’s most powerful tool.

Buster Keaton

Buster Keaton was known as the Great Stone Face because of his stoic expression even as he performed some of the most dangerous stunts in film history. He was a visionary director and actor during the silent era whose films like ‘The General’ and ‘Sherlock Jr.’ are considered masterpieces of visual storytelling. Keaton’s physical bravery and innovative use of the camera allowed him to create gags that still impress audiences today. His influence on both action and comedy cinema remains profound and widely recognized by modern filmmakers.

Adam Sandler

Adam Sandler established himself as a box office titan with a series of successful comedies that often featured his unique brand of juvenile and observational humor. After a popular stint on ‘Saturday Night Live’ he starred in hits like ‘Billy Madison’ and ‘Happy Gilmore’ which earned him a dedicated following. Sandler also showed his range in romantic comedies like ‘The Wedding Singer’ and more recently in critically acclaimed dramatic roles. His production company has consistently delivered popular films to both theaters and streaming platforms for nearly three decades.

Steve Carell

Steve Carell became a major star through his portrayal of the well meaning but oblivious Michael Scott in the American version of ‘The Office’. His breakout film role in ‘The 40-Year-Old Virgin’ solidified his status as a leading man who could balance raunchy humor with sweetness. Carell has since starred in various successful projects including the ‘Despicable Me’ franchise and ‘Anchorman’. He has also successfully transitioned into dramatic roles earning an Academy Award nomination for his performance in ‘Foxcatcher’.

Will Ferrell

Will Ferrell was the dominant force in Hollywood comedy throughout the two thousands thanks to his fearless and often absurd performances. He rose to fame on ‘Saturday Night Live’ before starring in a string of massive hits such as ‘Elf’ and ‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’. Ferrell’s ability to fully commit to ridiculous characters made films like ‘Step Brothers’ and ‘Talladega Nights’ into cultural touchstones. He is widely considered one of the most influential comedic actors of his generation.

Gene Wilder

Gene Wilder was a master of the comedic pause and the sudden outburst who shared a legendary partnership with director Mel Brooks. Together they created comedy classics such as ‘The Producers’ and ‘Blazing Saddles’ and ‘Young Frankenstein’. Wilder also became a beloved icon for his portrayal of the title character in ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’. His chemistry with Richard Pryor in several successful films helped define the buddy comedy genre for a generation.

Peter Sellers

Peter Sellers was a versatile genius known for his incredible ability to inhabit a wide variety of characters with different voices and physical traits. He gained international fame as the bumbling Inspector Clouseau in ‘The Pink Panther’ series which remains a high point of slapstick comedy. Sellers also demonstrated his range by playing multiple roles in the satirical masterpiece ‘Dr. Strangelove’. His final major performance in ‘Being There’ showed a more subtle and profound side of his comedic talent.

Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin was the first global superstar of the cinema era and a pioneer who elevated film comedy to an art form. His character of the Little Tramp became an enduring symbol of humanity and resilience through countless short films and features like ‘City Lights’. Chaplin wrote and directed and composed the music for many of his projects which allowed him to maintain complete creative control. Films such as ‘The Great Dictator’ showed his willingness to use comedy as a powerful tool for social and political commentary.

Steve Martin

Steve Martin rose to fame as a wildly successful stand up comedian before transitioning to a legendary career in motion pictures. He starred in several comedy classics including ‘The Jerk’ and ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ and ‘Father of the Bride’. Martin is also a talented writer and musician who has written several books and plays and award winning bluegrass albums. In recent years he has enjoyed continued success alongside Martin Short in the popular series ‘Only Murders in the Building’.

Bill Murray

Bill Murray is renowned for his deadpan delivery and his unique ability to play characters who are simultaneously cynical and charming. He first gained national attention on ‘Saturday Night Live’ before starring in massive hits like ‘Ghostbusters’ and ‘Caddyshack’. His role in ‘Groundhog Day’ is widely considered a masterpiece of comedic storytelling and character development. Murray has also earned critical acclaim for his more dramatic turns in films like ‘Lost in Translation’ while maintaining his status as a comedy icon.

Jim Carrey

Jim Carrey became a global phenomenon in the nineteen nineties through a series of high energy performances that showcased his incredible physical flexibility and vocal range. His breakout year featured the release of ‘Ace Ventura: Pet Detective’ and ‘The Mask’ and ‘Dumb and Dumber’ which were all massive hits. Carrey’s rubber faced comedy and improvisational skills made him the most sought after comedic actor of his era. He later demonstrated his depth as an actor in more dramatic projects such as ‘The Truman Show’ and ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind’.

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is credited with singlehandedly revitalizing ‘Saturday Night Live’ in the early nineteen eighties before becoming one of the biggest movie stars in history. He delivered iconic performances in ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and ‘Coming to America’ where he often played multiple characters with distinct voices. Murphy’s energy and timing made him a dominant force in the action comedy genre and a pioneer for many who followed. He also reached a whole new audience as the voice of Donkey in the hugely successful ‘Shrek’ franchise.

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor was a groundbreaking comedian whose honest and often raw approach to humor changed the landscape of American comedy. He successfully moved from the stage to the screen with leading roles in hits like ‘Stir Crazy’ and ‘Silver Streak’ alongside Gene Wilder. Pryor’s ability to use his personal struggles and social observations as comedic material paved the way for generations of future performers. He remains one of the most respected and influential figures in the history of the medium.

Robin Williams

Robin Williams was a unique talent whose lightning fast mind and extraordinary improvisational skills made him a beloved figure across the globe. He first gained fame as an alien in the sitcom ‘Mork & Mindy’ before transitioning to a legendary film career. His performances in comedies like ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘The Birdcage’ and his voice work in ‘Aladdin’ became quintessential examples of comedic brilliance. Williams also won an Academy Award for his dramatic work proving that his immense talent extended far beyond making people laugh.

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