The Most Famous Ventriloquist, Ranked

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

Updated on May 6, 2024 07:15

The art of ventriloquism has captivated audiences for generations, merging skillful voice manipulation with engaging puppetry to create memorable performances. By ranking the most prominent ventriloquists, fans and newcomers alike gain insights into the key figures who have shaped this unique form of entertainment. This not only highlights historical influences but also showcases current talents pushing the boundaries of this craft. The dynamic nature of these rankings can serve as a barometer for the evolving landscape of ventriloquism. As you participate by casting votes for your favorite artists, you contribute to a larger community effort that helps define and acknowledge the masters of ventriloquism. This live list is constantly updated, reflecting new opinions and discoveries, and encourages a comprehensive view of the field.

Who Is the Most Famous Ventriloquist?

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54
votes
Richard McLaren · CC BY-SA 3.0

Jeff Dunham

He is considered the most famous ventriloquist of all time, with a successful career spanning over three decades. He has multiple specials on Comedy Central and has sold out arenas around the world.
Jeff Dunham in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous Jeff
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28
votes

Film screenshot · Public domain

Edgar Bergen

He was one of the first ventriloquists to have a successful career in both radio and film, and was known for his character Charlie McCarthy. He even won an Academy Award for his work in film.
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33
votes

Shari Lewis

She was a beloved ventriloquist and puppeteer who created the character Lamb Chop. She had her own TV show and won multiple Emmy awards.
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10
votes

Photographer: James Kriegsmann, New York · Public domain

Paul Winchell

He was a ventriloquist, inventor, and voice actor who created the iconic characters Jerry Mahoney and Knucklehead Smiff. He also voiced Tigger in the Winnie the Pooh franchise.
5

33
votes
ronpaulrevolt2008 · CC BY-SA 2.0

Terry Fator

Terry Fator

He won America's Got Talent in 2007 and has since become a successful headliner in Las Vegas. He is known for his impressions and his character Winston the Impersonating Turtle.
Terry Fator is a highly acclaimed comedy ventriloquist show in Las Vegas that combines a unique blend of ventriloquism, comedy, and music. Fator gained worldwide fame after winning the second season of America's Got Talent in 2007, which helped establish his successful show in Las Vegas.

Genre: Comedy Ventriloquism Show

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

Venue: The Mirage Hotel and Casino

Duration: Approximately 90 minutes

Performance Frequency: Nightly
Terry Fator in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous AGT contestant
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19
votes

glastocabaret · CC BY 2.0

Nina Conti

She is a British ventriloquist who has won several awards for her performances, including the prestigious Barry Award at the Melbourne Comedy Festival. She is known for her use of masks and puppets.
7

10
votes

Jay Johnson

He is a ventriloquist and actor who won a Tony Award for his one-man show "Jay Johnson: The Two and Only!" He is also known for his role as Chuck and Bob on the TV show "Soap."
8

12
votes

International Management Company (personal management) · Public domain

Willie Tyler

He is an African American ventriloquist who has been performing for over 50 years. He is known for his characters Lester, the country bumpkin, and his sidekick, a dog named Tyler.
9

17
votes

Ronn Lucas

He is a ventriloquist and comedian who has appeared on The Tonight Show, The Late Show with David Letterman, and other late-night talk shows. He is known for his use of cutting-edge technology in his performances.
10

32
votes
Darci Lynne Farmer

She won the 12th season of America's Got Talent in 2017 at the age of 12. She is known for her singing ventriloquist act and has since gone on to have her own TV show on NBC.
Darci Lynne Farmer in other rankings
- Position 4 of 10 in Most famous AGT contestant

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Ranking factors for famous Ventriloquist

Recognition and Popularity

Consider the level of recognition and popularity a ventriloquist has achieved. This can be measured through their fan base, social media presence, media coverage, and public awareness of their performances.
Career Success and Achievements

Assess the ventriloquist's overall career success, including the number of years they have been active, the number of shows and gigs they have performed, and any notable achievements such as awards, TV appearances, or record-breaking performances.
Influence and Impact

Evaluate the ventriloquist's impact on the art of ventriloquism and their influence on other ventriloquists and performers. This could be measured through their unique style, innovative techniques, or their contributions to the field.
Talent and Skill

Consider the ventriloquist's talent and skill level, including their ability to effectively manipulate their puppets, create distinct characters, and deliver entertaining and engaging performances.
Legacy and Longevity

Take into account the ventriloquist's lasting impact and enduring legacy in the ventriloquism community. This includes their influence on future generations of ventriloquists and the impact they have made on the art form as a whole.

About this ranking

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

Statistics

7734 views
165 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

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

More information on most famous ventriloquist

Ventriloquism is an ancient art form that has entertained people for centuries. It involves the creation of the illusion of a talking puppet or doll, with the ventriloquist manipulating its movements and voice to make it seem alive. Over the years, many talented ventriloquists have risen to fame, capturing the hearts and imaginations of audiences around the world. From Edgar Bergen and his famous dummy, Charlie McCarthy, to contemporary ventriloquists like Jeff Dunham and Terry Fator, there have been many greats in this field. But when it comes to determining the most famous ventriloquist of all time, opinions may vary. Some might argue for the legendary Paul Winchell, who was not only a skilled ventriloquist but also an inventor and voice actor. Others might point to Shari Lewis and her beloved puppet, Lamb Chop, as the most iconic duo in the history of ventriloquism. Regardless of who you think should hold the title of the most famous ventriloquist, there is no denying the enduring popularity and fascination with this unique form of entertainment.