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The Funniest Stand-Up Comedians Of All Time

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Updated April 16, 2024 2.4M views

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1.6M votes

111.7K voters

Voting Rules

Must perform stand-up comedy. It's nice to be funny on film and TV, but stand-up is an art of its own.

This list ranks the best stand-up comedians in the history of the art form. First and foremost, all of the people on this list are funny comedians. Beyond that, this is a diverse list of people with different styles who approach different types of subject matter. Many of the popular comedians listed below worked their way up through the stand up circuit and eventually landed shows or specials on Netflix or Comedy Central, while others started their own YouTube channels and put their best jokes out into the world that way. The funniest comedians can come from any type of background, obviously there are insanely talented Black, Asian, Latino and white comedians (and everything in between.)

Being a good stand-up comic is tough, and whether they're an observant, an orator, an absurdist, blue collar, or alternative, all of the funny comedians on this list are unique, hardworking, and hilarious. They're some of the biggest and most famous names in the game, whether current or beloved goofy old comics. Many of the best comedians of all time got their start as stand-up comedians and then progressed to star in their own films or TV series. It takes a certain skill set and the ability to connect with people in order to excel at stand-up comedy, and we feel that these are the ones that shine.

This list is made of the 100 greatest stand-up comedians and then some. The top comedians are always changing. Feel free to add your votes on the greatest standups of all time. Then check back to see if any of your favorites broke into the top 20 comedians.

Most divisive: Daniel Tosh

Over 111.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Funniest Stand-Ups of All Time

Photo: Deborah Feingold / Getty Images
1
42,789 VOTES
George Carlin
A pioneer in observational comedy, George Carlin's career spanned five decades and included numerous HBO specials, comedy albums, and roles in films and television. His thought-provoking routines often touched on controversial subjects, including politics, language, and religion, earning him a reputation as a fearless truth-teller.
42,789 votes
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Photo: Dave Chappelle: The Closer / Netflix
2
42,060 VOTES
Dave Chappelle
Known for his sharp wit and unapologetic humor, Dave Chappelle gained fame with his groundbreaking sketch comedy series, Chappelle's Show. After a hiatus from the limelight, he made a triumphant return to stand-up comedy with multiple Netflix specials, solidifying his status as one of the greatest comedians of his generation.
42,060 votes
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3
33,362 VOTES
Richard Pryor
Widely considered one of the most influential comedians of all time, Richard Pryor's raw and honest storytelling about race, relationships, and his own life experiences broke new ground in stand-up comedy. His success extended to film, where he co-wrote and starred in various movies, including Silver Streak and Stir Crazy.
33,362 votes
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Photo: Eva Rinaldi / Flickr / CC-BY-SA 2.0
4
38,148 VOTES
Robin Williams
A whirlwind of energy and quick wit, Robin Williams gained fame on the sitcom Mork & Mindy before transitioning to a successful film career that included both comedic and dramatic roles. Known for his improv skills and ability to create memorable characters, Williams's high-energy style and unparalleled performances left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.
38,148 votes
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5
31,770 VOTES
Eddie Murphy
A versatile performer known for his impressions, Eddie Murphy first gained recognition as a cast member on Saturday Night Live in the early 1980s. He went on to become a major film star with hits like Beverly Hills Cop and Coming to America, while also maintaining a successful stand-up comedy career that influenced a generation of comedians.
31,770 votes
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Photo: Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
6
29,980 VOTES
Bill Burr
With his confrontational and brutally honest style, Bill Burr has developed a loyal following for his no-holds-barred take on politics, relationships, and societal issues. He gained widespread recognition with his stand-up specials and popular podcast, leading to roles in film and television, including his animated Netflix series F is for Family.
29,980 votes
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7
23,639 VOTES
Rodney Dangerfield
Famous for his catchphrase "I don't get no respect," Rodney Dangerfield's self-deprecating humor made him a household name. A staple in the comedy scene for decades, his memorable one-liners and signature delivery led to success in films such as Caddyshack and Back to School.
23,639 votes
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8
29,953 VOTES
Chris Rock
Known for his insightful and observational humor, Chris Rock made a name for himself on Saturday Night Live before moving on to a successful solo career as a comedian, actor, producer, and director. His unique perspective on race, relationships, and politics cemented him as one of the most important voices in comedy.
29,953 votes
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9
18,814 VOTES
Norm Macdonald
Dry and deadpan, Norm Macdonald's distinctive comedic style has made him a favorite among both fans and fellow comedians. Best known as the anchor for "Weekend Update" on Saturday Night Live, Macdonald's unapologetic wit and willingness to push boundaries have earned him a lasting place in the pantheon of great comics.
18,814 votes
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10
22,998 VOTES
Steve Martin
An accomplished comedian, actor, musician, and writer, Steve Martin began his career as a stand-up comic with his signature blend of absurdist and intellectual humor. He went on to star in numerous iconic films like The Jerk and Three Amigos, becoming one of the most successful and enduring comedy performers of all time.
22,998 votes
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Photo: Mark Mainz / Getty Images
11
17,739 VOTES
Don Rickles
Nicknamed "Mr. Warmth," Don Rickles was known for his acerbic wit and good-natured insults, making him a beloved figure in the world of comedy. His status as the king of insult comedy led to a career that spanned six decades, including appearances in numerous films and television shows.
17,739 votes
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12
33,657 VOTES
Louis C.K.
Often tackling dark and uncomfortable subjects, Louis C.K. has been praised for his brutally honest and self-deprecating comedic style. He gained critical acclaim for his FX series Louie in addition to his stand-up specials, though his career was later marred by sexual misconduct allegations.
33,657 votes
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Photo: Jason Kempin / Getty Images
13
22,440 VOTES
Ricky Gervais
Creator of the original British version of The Office, Ricky Gervais's distinct brand of humor combines cringe-worthy awkwardness and biting wit. As a stand-up comic, actor, and writer, Gervais's works often touch on controversial topics, including religion, animal rights, and celebrity culture.
22,440 votes
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14
21,511 VOTES
Mitch Hedberg
Known for his unique cadence and clever one-liners, Mitch Hedberg developed a cult following with his laid-back, observational comedy style. Though his career was tragically cut short by a drug overdose, his comedic influence remains widely celebrated and imitated.
21,511 votes
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15
13,308 VOTES
Mel Brooks
A master of film parody, Mel Brooks has created some of the most beloved comedies in cinema history, including Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and Spaceballs. His smart, irreverent humor and keen sense of timing have earned him numerous accolades, including a rare EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Awards).
13,308 votes
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16
19,616 VOTES
Jim Gaffigan
Specializing in clean, family-friendly humor, Jim Gaffigan has endeared himself to audiences with his observational comedy about food, parenting, and everyday life. A prolific stand-up comic, actor, and author, Gaffigan's light-hearted yet insightful take on the world has earned him a devoted fan base.
19,616 votes
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17
8,321 VOTES
John Cleese
As a founding member of the legendary Monty Python comedy troupe, John Cleese played a significant role in shaping the world of sketch comedy and satire. In addition to writing and starring in the iconic television series Monty Python's Flying Circus and its subsequent films, Cleese also co-created and starred in the classic sitcom Fawlty Towers.
8,321 votes
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18
15,366 VOTES
Redd Foxx
Best known for his role as Fred Sanford on the hit sitcom Sanford and Son, Redd Foxx's raucous, risqué stand-up comedy helped pave the way for future generations of Black comedians. His groundbreaking humor and signature delivery left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing countless performers that followed.
15,366 votes
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19
10,740 VOTES
Carol Burnett
A trailblazer for women in comedy, Carol Burnett broke new ground with her eponymous variety show that featured sketch comedy, music, and dance routines. Her ability to create memorable characters and her fearless approach to physical comedy have earned her a place as one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.
10,740 votes
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20
9,152 VOTES
Betty White
With a career spanning seven decades, Betty White has been a beloved figure in the world of comedy since her early days in radio and television. Best known for her roles in iconic TV shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Golden Girls, White's wit, charm, and impeccable comedic timing have made her a true Hollywood legend.
9,152 votes
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Photo: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com
21
19,068 VOTES
Jim Carrey
Known for his rubber-faced expressions and manic energy, Jim Carrey rose to fame with his roles in films like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, The Mask, and Dumb and Dumber. Combining physical comedy with a larger-than-life persona, Carrey quickly became one of Hollywood's top comedic actors.
19,068 votes
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22
3,738 VOTES
Tim Conway
A master of physical comedy and slapstick humor, Tim Conway delighted audiences for decades with his appearances on The Carol Burnett Show and other television programs. His seemingly effortless ability to create hilarious characters and situations made him an indispensable figure in the world of comedy.
3,738 votes
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23
24,889 VOTES
Kevin Hart
Small in stature but big in personality, Kevin Hart's high-energy stand-up comedy has made him one of the most successful comedians of his generation. He has also found success as an actor, starring in blockbuster films like Ride Along and Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.
24,889 votes
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24
16,317 VOTES
Bernie Mac
With a unique comedic voice that blended elements of storytelling, observation, and physical performance, Bernie Mac became a popular fixture in the world of stand-up comedy and television. His signature "Mac Man" persona made him a beloved figure on stage and screen, including his starring role on the hit sitcom The Bernie Mac Show.
16,317 votes
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25
23,146 VOTES
Jerry Seinfeld
Creator and star of the iconic television series Seinfeld, Jerry Seinfeld is known for his observational humor that finds comedy in the mundane aspects of daily life. His clean, clever jokes and consistently strong stand-up performances have made him one of the most successful and respected comedians of all time.
23,146 votes
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26
14,306 VOTES
Ron White
A member of the "Blue Collar Comedy" tour, Ron White's laid-back storytelling and cigar-smoking stage presence have earned him legions of fans. Combining down-home humor with an effortlessly cool demeanor, White has become one of the most recognizable figures in stand-up comedy.
14,306 votes
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27
12,026 VOTES
Bob Newhart
With his trademark deadpan delivery and impeccable timing, Bob Newhart has been a beloved figure in the world of comedy since his breakthrough comedy albums in the early 1960s. His success in stand-up led to starring roles in multiple television series, including The Bob Newhart Show and Newhart.
12,026 votes
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28
13,203 VOTES
Steven Wright
Known for his signature deadpan delivery and surreal one-liners, Steven Wright has been a respected figure in the world of stand-up comedy for decades. His unique style has influenced countless comedians who followed and his wit remains frequently quoted and admired.
13,203 votes
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29
5,814 VOTES
Gilda Radner
A founding cast member of Saturday Night Live, Gilda Radner established herself as a comedic force with her memorable characters and fearless performances. Tragically, her life was cut short by ovarian cancer, but her legacy as a trailblazer for women in comedy remains.
5,814 votes
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30
9,608 VOTES
Rowan Atkinson
Best known for his creation of the bumbling and largely mute character Mr. Bean, Rowan Atkinson's unique brand of physical comedy has delighted audiences around the world. In addition to his work as Mr. Bean, Atkinson has also starred in the British comedy series Blackadder and other film and television roles.
9,608 votes
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