The Most Famous Comedian of All Time, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the comedian you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 18, 2024 07:07

Humor has always been a vital part of human culture, offering both a reflection of society and a means of escape from its pressures. Ranking the most famous comedian of all time provides a unique snapshot of how comedic tastes and influences have shifted through the decades. This process not only highlights key figures who have shaped the landscape of comedy but also serves as a discussion starter among fans. By participating in this community-driven ranking, individuals contribute to a broader understanding of comedy's evolution and its impact on society. Each vote helps to shape a collective consensus, offering a dynamic look at how preferences change over time. Engaging with this list might also introduce participants to comedic styles and icons they were previously unaware of, broadening their horizons and enriching their appreciation of the art form.

Who Is the Most Famous Comedian of All Time?

1

94
votes
Strauss-Peyton Studio · Public domain

Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin - known for his iconic character, The Tramp, and his contributions to the silent film era.
Charlie Chaplin in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous pantomime performer
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous actor to have ever lived
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous mime artist
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous poor person
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous homeless person
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous bow tie wearer
2

30
votes
Alan Light · CC BY 2.0

Richard Pryor

Richard Pryor - considered one of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time, known for his honest and raw approach to comedy.
Richard Pryor in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous Richard
3

13
votes

Little David Records · Public domain

George Carlin

George Carlin is known for his social commentary and controversial material, Carlin is a legend in the stand-up comedy world.
4

15
votes
slgckgc · CC BY 2.0

Jerry Seinfeld

Jerry Seinfeld is creator and star of the hit sitcom, Seinfeld, and a successful stand-up comedian in his own right.
Jerry Seinfeld in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular Seinfeld character
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous comedian in America
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous person from Long Island
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous person on Netflix
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous Jew
5

19
votes
David Shankbone · CC BY 2.0

Eddie Murphy

Eddie Murphy is a versatile comedian who has found success in stand-up, film, and television.
Eddie Murphy in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous person in Sacramento
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous African American actor
6

6
votes
The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia · CC BY 2.0

Bill Cosby

Bill Cosby - once one of the most famous and beloved comedians in America, Cosby's reputation has been tarnished by allegations of sexual assault.
Bill Cosby in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous person born on July 12
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous person from Pennsylvania
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Bill
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous victim of cancel culture
- Position 8 of 10 in Most famous person born in Pennsylvania
7

11
votes
Harry Langdon · Public domain

Joan Rivers

Joan Rivers is a trailblazer for women in comedy, Rivers was known for her acerbic wit and fearless approach to comedy.
Joan Rivers in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most popular designer on QVC
- Position 9 of 10 in Most famous female talk-show host
8

6
votes
David Shankbone · CC BY-SA 3.0

Steve Martin

Steve Martin - an actor, writer, and musician in addition to his comedy career, Martin is known for his unique brand of absurdist humor.
Steve Martin in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular host of SNL
- Position 5 of 10 in Most famous Steve
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous banjo player
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous comedian in America
9

2
votes
Toglenn · CC BY-SA 4.0

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres

Ellen DeGeneres is a successful stand-up comedian and talk show host, DeGeneres has become a household name and an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights.
Ellen DeGeneres is a well-known American television host, comedian, actress, writer, and producer. She is widely renowned for her charismatic personality, humor, and immense talent. Ellen exudes a captivating aura of confidence, gracefulness, and intelligent wit, making her admired by people from all walks of life.

Age: Born on January 26, 1958 (currently 63 years old)

Career: Television host, comedian, actress, writer, producer

Famous Shows: The Ellen DeGeneres Show

Awards: Multiple Primetime Emmy Awards, People's Choice Awards, Teen Choice Awards, and more

Philanthropy: Supporter of various charities and organizations, including The Trevor Project and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Ellen DeGeneres in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous person living in Louisiana
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous female comedian
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous tomboy
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular daytime talk show host
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous female talk-show host
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous person in LA
10

7
votes
Eva Rinaldi · CC BY-SA 2.0

Robin Williams

Robin Williams is a beloved comedian and actor, Williams was known for his high-energy performances and improvisational skills.
Robin Williams in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous person with Parkinson's Disease
- Position 3 of 10 in Most famous ENFP
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous person born in July
- Position 6 of 10 in Most famous person from Chicago
- Position 7 of 10 in Most famous person from the Bay Area
- Position 10 of 10 in Most popular Cancer Zodiac sign

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Discussion

Ranking factors for famous comedian

Popularity and audience appeal

The comedian's ability to appeal to a wide audience and maintain a large fan base is a key factor.
Career longevity

The length of the comedian's career and his or her impact on the comedy world over time should also be considered.
Influence on other comedians

The comedian's influence on other comedians and the comedy industry as a whole is an important factor.
Awards and accolades

Recognition from the industry and peers, including awards and accolades, can also contribute to a comedian's overall fame.
Unique style and approach

A comedian with a unique style and approach that sets them apart from others can also have a significant impact on their fame.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous comedian of all time. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or comedian is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

3156 views
203 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each comedian once every 24 hours. The rank of each comedian is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous comedian of all time

Comedy has been a staple of entertainment for centuries, with the art of making people laugh dating back to ancient civilizations. However, in the modern era of comedy, there have been a handful of comedians who have risen to the top of the industry and become household names. From Charlie Chaplin to Lucille Ball, Richard Pryor to Ellen DeGeneres, the list of iconic comedians is extensive. But who truly deserves the title of the most famous comedian of all time? With so many comedic legends to choose from, it's a tough call. However, through the power of StrawPoll, we are able to gather opinions and insights from people all over the world to determine the answer to this age-old question.