The Funniest TV Characters of All Time
These are the funniest television characters ever created, as determined by the votes and selections of Ranker users. Lots of things make up truly iconic, timelessly funny characters... the actor, the writing, the supporting cast... but in the end, it's just the character that makes you laugh yourself weak.
What are the funniest characters on TV? These are the characters that still make you roll on the floor no matter if you are watching new episodes or reruns from 20 years ago. A lot of the funniest TV characters of all time, like Homer Simpson and Stewie Griffin, tend to be cartoons but there are lots of funny characters that are real-life people too. Vote for your funniest picks and add any characters you see missing. If you want to really impact this list's order, make your own ranking and add it!- 1The Office
- Actor: Steve Carell
The bumbling regional manager of Dunder Mifflin Paper Company in The Office, he is known for his sometimes offensive and always cringe-worthy humor. His unorthodox managerial style, desperate need to be liked, and constant confusion of leadership with friendship provide consistent laughs throughout the series. His awkward interactions with employees, endearing misunderstandings, and infamous catchphrase "That's what she said!" make him unforgettable.
- 2Friends
- Actor: Matthew Perry
As one of the six friends on Friends, he is notorious for his sarcastic wit and self-deprecating humor. His fear of commitment and several dysfunctional relationships only add to the hilarity, especially when paired with his trademark facial expressions. Struggling to find his career path and asserting his masculinity while dealing with a wacky family background makes him relatable and lovable.
- 3The Office
- Actor: Rainn Wilson
As the eccentric Assistant Regional Manager of Dunder Mifflin in The Office, he is overly ambitious, driven by bizarre beliefs, and has little grasp of social norms. His obsession with authority, relentless pursuit of impressing Michael Scott, and fixation on bizarre hobbies like beet farming combine for non-stop laughs. His ongoing rivalry with Jim Halpert and their epic prank wars make for memorable comedic moments.
- 4Parks and Recreation
- Actor: Nick Offerman
As the stoic yet dryly hilarious Director of Parks and Recreation, he is known for his disdain of government, love of meat, and woodworking skills. His mustache, libertarian beliefs, and aversion to emotions are both endearing and hysterical. His relationship with his equally fierce ex-wives and eventual transformation into a loving husband and father beautifully showcase his comedic range.
- 5Family Guy
- Actor: Seth MacFarlane
The eccentric, British-accented infant genius in Family Guy is equal parts adorable and diabolical. His complex schemes, from world domination to matricide, are consistently thwarted by his own incompetence and naivete, resulting in endless amusement. The dynamic between Stewie and his anthropomorphic pet dog, Brian, is a cornerstone of the show's humor.
- 6How I Met Your Mother
- Actor: Neil Patrick Harris
The ultimate playboy in How I Met Your Mother, he has an unwavering dedication to his womanizing playbook and outrageous antics. His penchant for expensive suits, laser tag, and his legendary catchphrases like "Suit up!" and "It's gonna be legen... wait for it... dary!" provide countless laughs. His unexpected moments of vulnerability and growth add depth to this hilarious character.
