The Funniest Canadian Comedy Actors of All Time
Vote up your favorite comedy actors of all time.
A list of notable actors from Canada, ranked by comedy movies and TV show fans. Many of these actors and humorists, originally from Canada, have found fame outside of their native land and are now international stars, while some have largely remained well-known to their fellow citizens. But all have proven themselves to be lasting performances making a considerable impact in the entertainment industry.
Several notable funny actors who have gained prominence in Hollywood are originally from Canada. These include Will Arnett, best known for his work on "Arrested Development" and the 2011 fall debut "Up All Night," "Daily Show" correspondent Samantha Bee, "Saturday Night Live" creator Lorne Michaels and "SCTV" alum Catherine O'Hara. As well, the late, great Leslie Nielsen, one of the most beloved comic actors of the '70s, '80s and '90s, hailed from Canada, as does game show host Howie Mandel, stand-up and SNL vet Norm MacDonald and the entire cast of "The Kids in the Hall."
Who are the funniest Canadian comedy actors? This list is by no means 100% complete, but is a good starting guide to the best Canadian comedy performers in the theatre and on screen.
- 1SCTV, Spaceballs, Planes
- Age: Dec. at 43 (1950-1994)
- Birthplace: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
John Candy was a beloved Canadian actor and comedian, known for his roles in classic films such as Planes, Trains & Automobiles and Uncle Buck. His endearing personality and impeccable comedic timing earned him a lasting spot in the hearts of fans worldwide. Sadly, Candy passed away in 1994, but his legendary performances continue to bring laughter to new generations.
- 2The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!, The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear, Naked Gun 33 1/3: The Final Insult
- Age: Dec. at 84 (1926-2010)
- Birthplace: Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
Leslie Nielsen was a versatile actor who transitioned from serious dramatic roles to becoming a comedy icon. With his deadpan delivery and perfect sense of timing, Nielsen starred in unforgettable comedies such as Airplane! and The Naked Gun series. He continued working well into his 80s, proving that age is just a number when it comes to great talent.
- 3Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, The Truman Show, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
- Age: 61
- Birthplace: Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
Jim Carrey's energetic and zany comedic style catapulted him to stardom in the 1990s. From his early work on In Living Color to blockbuster films like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and The Mask, Carrey's rubber-faced expressions and physical comedy have endeared him to millions of fans. In addition to comedy, Carrey has showcased his dramatic acting chops in movies like The Truman Show and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
- 4Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me, Austin Powers in Goldmember, Shrek
- Age: 60
- Birthplace: Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
Mike Myers is an incredibly talented actor, writer, and comedian best known for creating memorable characters in Saturday Night Live and the Austin Powers movies. He brought life to voices of many beloved animated characters, including Shrek. Myers' talents in writing, performing, and producing have solidified his status as a Hollywood heavyweight.
- 5Dirty Work, Billy Madison, Saturday Night Live
- Age: 59
- Birthplace: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Norm Macdonald is known for his trademark dry wit and unique delivery that has made him a respected figure in the world of comedy. Starting as a writer for Roseanne and later starring in Saturday Night Live, Macdonald's career spans across television shows, movies, and stand-up. He is also the author of a critically acclaimed memoir, Based on a True Story.
- 6Ghostbusters, The Blues Brothers, Ghostbusters II
- Age: 71
- Birthplace: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Dan Aykroyd's memorable characters and comedy writing played a key role in the success of Saturday Night Live during its early years. Alongside fellow cast member John Belushi, he formed the revered Blues Brothers, which later became a hit movie. With an extensive filmography that includes classics like Ghostbusters, Aykroyd remains an influential figure in comedy.
