Young Actors Who Can Make Anything Funny

The landscape of modern entertainment is increasingly defined by performers who can pivot seamlessly between high-stakes drama and laugh-out-loud comedy. While some actors specialize strictly in humor, a new generation of talent has emerged that brings levity to even the most serious roles. These actors utilize physical comedy, sharp wit, and impeccable timing to elevate the material they are given. From blockbuster franchises to independent cinema, their presence often ensures a memorable and entertaining experience for the audience. The following individuals represent the best of young male talent capable of making any script funny.

Timothée Chalamet

Timothée Chalamet has demonstrated a surprising knack for comedy through his hosting stints on ‘Saturday Night Live’. While primarily known for dramatic roles, his performance in ‘Wonka’ showcased his ability to handle whimsical and physical humor. He often utilizes a self-deprecating charm that resonates with audiences during press tours and public appearances. His versatility allows him to transition from intense drama to lighthearted satire with ease. This comedic timing adds a layer of relatability to his most prestigious projects.

Tom Holland

Tom Holland brought a youthful and witty energy to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the lead in ‘Spider-Man: Homecoming’. His background in gymnastics allows him to incorporate physical comedy into his action sequences effectively. In ‘Uncharted’, he played off his co-stars with a fast-paced banter that lightened the adventure film’s tone. Holland’s ability to deliver nervous, earnest humor has become a staple of his public persona. He continues to prove that he can find the funny side of high-pressure situations.

Glen Powell

Glen Powell has become a standout in the romantic comedy genre with his role in ‘Anyone But You’. He possesses a classic leading-man charisma that is often undercut by brilliant comedic timing and expressive facial work. His performance in ‘Hit Man’ allowed him to showcase a wide range of humorous personas and high-energy delivery. Powell frequently leans into “himbo” archetypes while maintaining a sharp, intelligent edge to his humor. This balance makes him one of the most reliable comedic presences in modern cinema.

Nicholas Hoult

Nicholas Hoult transitioned from a child star to a versatile adult actor with a particular talent for dark comedy. His role as Peter III in ‘The Great’ earned him critical acclaim for his ability to play a buffoonish yet charismatic emperor. In ‘Renfield’, he successfully balanced horror elements with a weary, comedic performance as Dracula’s assistant. Hoult often uses deadpan delivery and exaggerated movements to highlight the absurdity of his characters. He remains a top choice for directors looking for a blend of prestige and laughs.

Will Poulter

Will Poulter became a viral sensation for his comedic role in ‘We’re the Millers’, proving his talent for awkward humor early on. He has since showcased a more nuanced comedic range in projects like ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3’. Poulter is adept at playing characters who are either unintentionally funny or deeply out of their depth. His unique facial expressions and expressive eyebrows often enhance the humor of his dialogue. He consistently brings a memorable spark to every ensemble cast he joins.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron successfully shed his teen idol image by embracing R-rated comedies like ‘Neighbors’ and ‘Dirty Grandpa’. He often plays characters who are overly confident but frequently humiliated, utilizing his physical fitness for slapstick humor. In ‘Ricky Stanicky’, he continued to lean into his talent for high-concept comedic premises. Efron’s willingness to poke fun at his own handsome image has endeared him to comedy fans. His timing in ensemble pieces remains sharp and effective.

Joe Keery

Joe Keery became a fan favorite in ‘Stranger Things’ by evolving his character into a lovable, often comedic mentor figure. He transitioned this charm to the big screen in ‘Free Guy’, where he played a quirky and relatable developer. Keery’s humor often stems from a sense of bewildered sincerity that makes his characters instantly likable. He also explores more absurdist humor in independent projects like ‘Spree’. His natural charisma makes even the most mundane lines feel entertaining.

Justice Smith

Justice Smith showcased his comedic leading-man potential in ‘Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves’. He plays the role of a low-confidence sorcerer with a perfect blend of self-doubt and dry wit. Smith previously demonstrated his ability to handle comedic tension in the blockbuster ‘Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom’. He often portrays the “straight man” in chaotic situations, making his reactions a primary source of humor. His expressive acting style brings a lot of life to genre-bending scripts.

Bowen Yang

Bowen Yang has become a breakout star on ‘Saturday Night Live’ due to his bold and highly original character work. He has a unique ability to turn niche cultural references into mainstream comedic gold. In the film ‘Fire Island’, he displayed his capacity for more grounded, heartfelt humor while maintaining his signature wit. Yang’s delivery is often fast-paced and layered with satirical social commentary. He is widely considered one of the most influential comedic voices of his generation.

Pete Davidson

Pete Davidson is known for a candid and self-referential style of humor that has defined his career. His work on ‘Saturday Night Live’ and in the film ‘The King of Staten Island’ blends personal trauma with observational comedy. Davidson’s laid-back delivery and “slacker” persona allow him to deliver controversial jokes with a disarming charm. He often plays exaggerated versions of himself, leaning into his public reputation for laughs. His presence in a film typically signals a modern, edgy comedic tone.

Jack Dylan Grazer

Jack Dylan Grazer is widely recognized for his high-energy comedic performance in ‘Shazam!’. He plays the fast-talking best friend with an infectious enthusiasm that drives much of the film’s humor. Grazer also displayed a talent for neurotic and anxious comedy in the ‘It’ film series. He has a natural ability to deliver rapid-fire dialogue without losing the audience’s attention. His youthful energy makes him a perfect fit for coming-of-age comedies and adventure films.

Simu Liu

Simu Liu proved his comedic mettle by playing one of the rival Kens in the global phenomenon ‘Barbie’. His background in the sitcom ‘Kim’s Convenience’ provided him with a strong foundation in physical comedy and timing. Liu is adept at playing characters who are competitive, slightly arrogant, and ultimately hilarious. He often uses his athletic background to execute impressive yet funny stunts. His social media presence and hosting duties further highlight his natural wit and charm.

Dominic Sessa

Dominic Sessa made a massive impression in his debut film ‘The Holdovers’ with his portrayal of a rebellious student. He managed to match the comedic timing of industry veterans with his sharp, cynical dialogue. Sessa’s humor often comes from a place of teenage angst and intellectual superiority. He possesses a distinctive look and a deadpan delivery that makes his insults particularly effective. Critics have noted his ability to find the humor in lonely or difficult situations.

Kieran Culkin

Kieran Culkin has been a mainstay in the industry for years, but his role in ‘Succession’ redefined his career. As Roman Roy, he delivered some of the most biting and profane insults in television history. Culkin has a unique, fidgety energy that translates into a very specific type of physical and verbal comedy. He often plays characters who use humor as a defense mechanism against emotional vulnerability. His ability to improvise and land punchlines has made him a celebrated figure in the comedy-drama space.

Taron Egerton

Taron Egerton broke through with the ‘Kingsman’ franchise, which required a mix of suave action and cheeky humor. He has a natural “lad” charm that works well in British comedies and high-octane adventures. In ‘Rocketman’, he brought a flamboyant and often humorous energy to the role of Elton John. Egerton is excellent at playing characters who are slightly over-ambitious or fish-out-of-water. His vocal versatility also contributes to his comedic range in animated projects like ‘Sing’.

Dev Patel

Dev Patel showcased a brilliant talent for fast-paced, verbal comedy in ‘The Personal History of David Copperfield’. While known for intense dramas like ‘Lion’, he has a lanky physicality that works perfectly for slapstick. Patel’s humor often relies on a sense of earnestness and wide-eyed wonder. He is capable of carrying a film with a lighthearted, infectious energy that keeps the audience engaged. His transition into more comedic roles has been met with significant critical praise.

Ncuti Gatwa

Ncuti Gatwa became a household name through his vibrant and hilarious performance in ‘Sex Education’. He plays Eric Effiong with a level of joy and expressive humor that serves as the heart of the show. Gatwa’s comedic timing is often tied to his bold fashion choices and high-energy reactions. He also brought a playful, charismatic energy to his role in ‘Barbie’. His recent casting in ‘Doctor Who’ promises to utilize his ability to blend whimsy with dramatic stakes.

Jamie Demetriou

Jamie Demetriou is a master of character comedy, best known for creating and starring in ‘Stath Lets Flats’. He specializes in playing socially inept or incompetent characters who are painfully funny to watch. Demetriou often utilizes unique vocal inflections and awkward body language to create laughs. He has appeared in major projects like ‘Fleabag’ and ‘Cruella’, often stealing scenes with minimal screen time. His brand of humor is distinctively British, focusing on the absurdity of everyday life.

Gaten Matarazzo

Gaten Matarazzo provides a consistent source of humor in ‘Stranger Things’ as the intellectual and witty Dustin Henderson. He has a natural ability to deliver exposition while keeping the tone light and entertaining. Matarazzo’s comedic style is often based on his character’s confidence in the face of supernatural danger. He has also taken his comedic talents to the Broadway stage and various prank shows. His relatability and expressive face make him a standout young comedic actor.

Finn Wolfhard

Finn Wolfhard has grown from a child star into an actor with a keen sense of dry, observational humor. In ‘Ghostbusters: Afterlife’, he brought a cynical teenage energy that balanced the film’s nostalgic elements. Wolfhard has also explored comedy through his musical pursuits and voice acting in ‘Pinocchio’. He often plays the “straight man” to more eccentric characters, making his reactions vital to the humor. His career continues to evolve as he takes on more diverse and funny roles.

Jaboukie Young-White

Jaboukie Young-White is a multifaceted talent known for his stand-up comedy, writing, and acting. He has appeared in projects like ‘C’mon C’mon’ and ‘Only Murders in the Building’, often bringing a modern and satirical edge. Young-White has a gift for social media-inspired humor that resonates deeply with Gen Z. His voice work in ‘Strange World’ further demonstrated his ability to convey comedy through vocal performance alone. He is considered one of the sharpest young writers and performers in the industry.

Julio Torres

Julio Torres is known for his surreal and highly imaginative brand of comedy. As a writer for ‘Saturday Night Live’, he created some of the show’s most eccentric and beloved sketches. His film ‘Problemista’ showcases his ability to turn the stresses of the immigration system into an absurdist comedy. Torres often plays characters who are soft-spoken yet deeply intense about trivial things. His visual style and unique perspective make him a true original in the comedy world.

Michael Cera

Michael Cera became the face of awkward, indie comedy in the mid-2000s with ‘Superbad’ and ‘Arrested Development’. He has maintained a consistent career by leaning into his signature quiet, unassuming delivery. Cera often plays characters who are socially anxious or misunderstood, making him a relatable comedic lead. In ‘Barbie’, he reminded audiences of his unique timing by playing the lone Allan. His ability to make even the longest silences funny is a testament to his skill.

Lewis Pullman

Lewis Pullman showcased a great deal of comedic charm as “Bob” in the massive hit ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. He played the unassuming, glasses-wearing pilot with a dry wit that stood out among the more aggressive characters. Pullman has also appeared in ‘Bad Times at the El Royale’, where he handled dark humor with precision. He often utilizes a subtle, understated approach to comedy that feels very grounded. His rising profile suggests he will be a staple in both dramas and comedies for years to come.

Brandon Scott Jones

Brandon Scott Jones is a scene-stealer known for his role as a flamboyant ghost in the sitcom ‘Ghosts’. He has a high-energy, theatrical style of comedy that is both heartwarming and hilarious. Jones has also appeared in films like ‘Isn’t It Romantic’ and ‘Renfield’, often providing sharp observational humor. His background in improv comedy gives him the ability to land punchlines with perfect timing. He is increasingly recognized as one of the most reliable supporting actors in the comedy genre.

Marcello Hernández

Marcello Hernandez joined the cast of ‘Saturday Night Live’ and quickly became a standout for his energetic and culturally relevant sketches. He often incorporates his Latino heritage into his comedy, making it accessible and funny for a wide audience. Hernandez has a very expressive physical style and a fast-paced delivery. He excels at playing high-energy characters who are often in over their heads. His rising popularity points to a bright future in both sketch and film comedy.

Andrew Barth Feldman

Andrew Barth Feldman proved his comedic leading-man status opposite Jennifer Lawrence in ‘No Hard Feelings’. He played an socially awkward teenager with a vulnerability that made the comedy feel earned. Feldman has a background in musical theater, which contributes to his excellent vocal control and timing. He is able to handle physical comedy, such as a memorable scene involving a moving car, with great skill. His performance was widely cited as one of the comedic highlights of its release year.

Skylar Astin

Skylar Astin is best known for his role in the ‘Pitch Perfect’ franchise, where he blended musical talent with leading-man charm. He has a natural ability to play the “nice guy” who is also quick with a witty remark. Astin has also starred in the musical comedy series ‘Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist’, showcasing his versatility. His humor is often grounded and relatable, making him a favorite for romantic comedies. He continues to work steadily in both television and film, always bringing a sense of levity.

Ben Platt

Ben Platt is a Tony-winning actor who has successfully transitioned into film and television comedy. In ‘Theater Camp’, he showcased a deep understanding of mockumentary-style humor and character-driven bits. Platt often plays intense, high-strung characters whose passion becomes the source of the comedy. He is adept at utilizing his musical background to enhance comedic situations. His ability to balance genuine emotion with absurdity makes him a compelling performer.

Noah Galvin

Noah Galvin is known for his sharp wit and expressive performance style, particularly in the film ‘Booksmart’. He took over the lead role in the Broadway show ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, proving his dramatic and comedic range. In ‘Theater Camp’, he co-wrote and starred as a tech director, delivering some of the film’s funniest moments. Galvin’s humor often stems from a place of theatricality and keen social observation. He is a key figure in the current wave of young, multi-talented comedic actors.

Mason Gooding

Mason Gooding has become a recognizable face in the horror-comedy space with his role in the ‘Scream’ franchise. He plays characters who are charismatic and often serve as the “voice of the audience” with their meta-commentary. Gooding has a natural, relaxed energy that makes his comedic delivery feel effortless. He also appeared in the teen comedy ‘Booksmart’, further establishing his credentials in the genre. His ability to provide comic relief in high-tension situations is a valuable asset.

Jacob Elordi

Jacob Elordi is primarily known for his dramatic roles in ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Saltburn’, but he has shown a surprising comedic side. During his hosting stint on ‘Saturday Night Live’, he leaned into self-deprecating humor and weird character work. Elordi possesses a dry, deadpan wit that often surfaces in his interviews and public appearances. He has expressed interest in exploring more comedic roles to diversify his filmography. His stature and striking looks provide an interesting contrast to the silly characters he sometimes portrays.

Charles Melton

Charles Melton gained fame on ‘Riverdale’ but earned critical acclaim for his more nuanced work in ‘May December’. While that film is a drama, Melton’s performance includes a subtle, tragicomic layer that highlights the absurdity of his character’s situation. He has a natural charm and a background in teen drama that he can subvert for comedic effect. Melton has shown that he can handle satirical material with a grounded and realistic approach. He is currently one of the most sought-after young actors in Hollywood.

Manny Jacinto

Manny Jacinto became a cult favorite for his portrayal of Jason Mendoza in ‘The Good Place’. He mastered the “lovable idiot” archetype, delivering absurd lines with total sincerity and perfect timing. Jacinto’s performance relied on a mix of physical comedy and a unique vocal cadence. Since the show ended, he has appeared in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ and other high-profile projects. He remains one of the most cited examples of an actor who can turn a supporting comedic role into a breakout success.

D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai

D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai leads the cast of ‘Reservation Dogs’, a show celebrated for its unique blend of deadpan humor and indigenous culture. He plays Bear Smallhill with a mix of teenage bravado and comedic vulnerability. Woon-A-Tai’s timing is perfectly suited for the show’s laid-back, observational style of comedy. He often shares scenes with eccentric guest stars, acting as the grounded center of the group. His performance has been instrumental in the show’s critical and popular success.

Bo Burnham

Bo Burnham began his career as a YouTube comedian and has since become an acclaimed filmmaker and actor. His special ‘Inside’ showcased his ability to blend existential dread with sharp, musical comedy. As an actor, he appeared in ‘Promising Young Woman’, bringing a charming yet complicated energy to the role. Burnham’s humor is often deeply satirical and focused on the influence of the internet on modern life. He is a leading voice in contemporary comedy, both behind and in front of the camera.

Kelvin Harrison, Jr.

Kelvin Harrison Jr. is known for heavy dramatic roles in films like ‘Waves’ and ‘Luce’, but he possesses a charismatic wit. In the film ‘Chevalier’, he brought a confident and occasionally humorous swagger to the titular character. Harrison Jr. often uses his charm to inject levity into intense narratives. He has shown an interest in expanding his range to include more overtly comedic or lighthearted projects. His talent for nuanced character work suggests he could excel in high-concept comedy.

Anthony Ramos

Anthony Ramos brought a high-energy, infectious humor to the lead role in ‘In the Heights’. His background in the original cast of ‘Hamilton’ gave him a strong sense of rhythm and timing that translates well to screen comedy. Ramos often plays characters who are optimistic, fast-talking, and relatable. He appeared in ‘Transformers: Rise of the Beasts’, where he handled the “everyman” comedic tropes with ease. His charisma makes him a natural fit for musicals and action-comedies alike.

Harris Dickinson

Harris Dickinson showcased his comedic range in the satirical film ‘Triangle of Sadness’. He played a male model with a shallow but hilarious lack of self-awareness. Dickinson often utilizes his physical appearance to play characters who are being poked fun at by the script. He has also appeared in more traditional comedies like ‘See How They Run’, showcasing a talent for farce. His ability to jump between gritty drama and high-concept satire has made him a versatile rising star.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield has a nervous, high-strung energy that he frequently channels into comedic brilliance. In his return as Peter Parker in ‘Spider-Man: No Way Home’, he provided much of the film’s emotional and comedic heart. Garfield’s performance in ‘Tick, Tick… Boom!’ also utilized his fast-paced delivery and physical expressiveness. He is known for his “theatrical” energy, which allows him to land big comedic moments without losing sincerity. His interviews are often filled with spontaneous and self-deprecating humor.

Barry Keoghan

Barry Keoghan earned an Oscar nomination for his role in ‘The Banshees of Inisherin’, playing a simple-minded but heartbreakingly funny local. He has a unique screen presence that allows him to play eccentric or unsettling characters with a touch of humor. In ‘Saltburn’, he navigated dark comedy and psychological thriller elements with great precision. Keoghan often uses his distinctive voice and unconventional timing to create memorable characters. He is one of the most unpredictable and exciting actors working today.

Danny Ramirez

Danny Ramirez brought a fun, competitive energy to ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ as one of the elite pilots. He also appeared in the Marvel series ‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’, where he displayed a natural comedic rapport with the lead actors. Ramirez often plays characters who are loyal, slightly cocky, and quick with a joke. His presence adds a modern and relatable sense of humor to large-scale action projects. He continues to build a diverse filmography across television and film.

Jordan Fisher

Jordan Fisher is a versatile performer known for his roles in teen comedies like ‘To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You’. He has a background in musical theater and gaming, which contributes to his high-energy and engaging personality. Fisher often plays the “perfect boyfriend” archetype but infuses it with enough wit to keep it interesting. He is also a prolific voice actor, using his vocal range to bring comedy to various animated roles. His natural charm makes him a mainstay in the young adult genre.

Noah Centineo

Noah Centineo became the “internet’s boyfriend” through a series of Netflix romantic comedies, starting with ‘To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before’. He specializes in a bumbling, earnest type of humor that relies on his physical stature and relaxed delivery. Centineo has recently transitioned into action-comedy with the series ‘The Recruit’. He often plays characters who are charmingly clumsy or slightly out of their depth. His brand of humor is consistently warm and accessible.

Kit Connor

Kit Connor achieved global fame with ‘Heartstopper’, where he balances romantic drama with sweet, youthful humor. He has a natural ability to convey awkward teenage emotions that are both relatable and funny. Connor also voiced a character in ‘His Dark Materials’, showing his ability to handle genre material. He possesses a classic screen presence that works well in both contemporary and period settings. His career is on a rapid upward trajectory following his breakout success.

Joe Locke

Joe Locke made his debut in ‘Heartstopper’ and quickly showed a talent for dry, observational wit. He plays characters who are often the most sensible people in the room, making their reactions to chaos very funny. Locke has recently joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe in ‘Agatha All Along’, where he continues to showcase his comedic timing. His expressive face and quick delivery make him a standout in ensemble casts. He represents a new generation of talent bringing diverse perspectives to comedy.

Alex Wolff

Alex Wolff is known for his roles in ‘Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle’ and its sequel, where he played a neurotic teenager. He has a high-energy, often manic comedic style that works well in high-concept premises. Wolff has also ventured into directing and serious drama, but he remains a go-to for characters who are stressed or overwhelmed. His background as a child star on ‘The Naked Brothers Band’ provided early training in musical and sketch comedy. He continues to balance indie projects with major studio comedies.

Nat Wolff

Nat Wolff has a more understated comedic style than his brother, often playing the grounded or cynical lead. In ‘The Fault in Our Stars’, he provided much-needed comic relief with his dry delivery and physical comedy. He has starred in several young adult adaptations, always bringing a sense of realistic wit to his roles. Wolff is also a musician, and his creative background often informs the artistic and slightly quirky characters he chooses. He remains a consistent and reliable presence in the film industry.

Miles Teller

Miles Teller broke through with ‘The Spectacular Now’, showing a talent for playing charismatic and funny, yet flawed, characters. He often utilizes a fast-talking, slightly arrogant persona that works well in both comedies and dramas. In ‘Top Gun: Maverick’, he brought a more serious but still witty energy to the role of Rooster. Teller’s timing is sharp, and he is excellent at delivering cynical or sarcastic dialogue. He has proven his ability to lead major franchises while maintaining his indie sensibilities.

Cooper Hoffman

Cooper Hoffman made a stunning debut in ‘Licorice Pizza’, showing an innate talent for naturalistic comedy. He played a teenage hustler with a level of confidence and wit that felt both authentic and hilarious. Hoffman’s performance relied on his ability to handle fast-paced, improvisational-style dialogue. He has a unique screen presence that avoids typical Hollywood tropes, making his brand of humor feel very fresh. As the son of Philip Seymour Hoffman, he carries on a legacy of immense talent and versatility.

Tell us in the comments which of these young stars never fails to make you laugh!