The Funniest Female TV Characters
The funniest female TV characters are those whom we've both laughed at and laughed with, sharing their hilarious moments and sometimes their most touching ones. These funny females are mothers, friends, wives and businesswomen -- comical television character versions of the roles women play in real life. Sometimes easy to relate to, sometimes not, funny female TV characters keep viewers returning to the TV for season after season.
While most truly funny women on TV can be found in sitcoms, a few of the best and funniest women in television can be found in dramas and even cartoon shows. Ally McBeal proved that a leading woman’s role could deal with dramatic situations, yet still allow the female lead to be humorous. A few of the funniest female TV characters have also come from books adapted into television shows, as in the case of Piper Chapman -- who also plays in a drama.
Some of the funniest women on TV are known for their antics; a classic example is Lucy Ricardo’s failure to pronounce “Vitameatavegamin” after becoming tipsy off the health tonic of the same name. Some of TV’s funniest women are known for their rants or musings. Remember when Elaine Benes had to decide whether men were ‘spongeworthy?' Or 30 Rock's sarcastic Liz Lemon and her many antics. No matter why viewers find them funny, these quirky, witty girl characters continue to stand the test of time and give both men and women hilarious females to enjoy on TV.
Whoever your favorite funny women on TV are, chances are they’ve become characters you can watch again and again. And that’s the real test: The funniest female TV characters aren’t just funny once, they’re enjoyable and humorous with repeated viewings. They’re human, they’re engaging and these funny television females give audiences not only a laugh, but a lift -- whether they earned one season, six seasons or more.
- 1Betty White
- Series: The Golden Girls
A gentle-natured blonde from St. Olaf, she has a penchant for telling hilariously long-winded stories about her hometown. Endearingly naive and simple, she often unintentionally delivers one-liners that have the audience in stitches. Living with her three equally hilarious roommates, she brings a certain sweetness and innocence to the show's pack of witty women.
- 2Lucille Ball
- Series: I Love Lucy
An ambitious, starry-eyed housewife, her dreams of breaking into show business lead to some truly iconic comedic moments. Known for her impeccable slapstick skills, she uses her physical comedy to bring laughter in her countless zany schemes. Despite being a trouble magnet, she sincerely loves her family and friends, which adds to the enduring charm of her character.
- 3
Carol Burnett
A versatile comedienne known for her impressive array of memorable characters and sketches, she is an absolute force to be reckoned with on the small screen. With her impeccable timing and quick wit, she portrays everyone from doting mothers to sweet grandmothers and everything in between. She can turn even the most mundane scene into a laugh riot, cementing her status as an iconic and beloved performer.
- 4Lisa Kudrow
- Series: Friends
A quirky, eccentric musician with a mysterious past, she captivates audiences with her catchy songs and endearing naivete. Her oddball sense of humor and sometimes dark past experiences provide both hilarity and depth, making her an unforgettable and lovable character. As a loyal friend who stands by her tight-knit group despite their antics, she plays an integral part in their iconic New York City adventures.
- 5Amy Poehler
- Series: Parks and Recreation
A determined, go-getter government employee, she shines as a beacon of positivity in a world of bureaucracy and red tape. With a passion for waffles and a relentless work ethic, she uplifts her friends and coworkers, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Her humor and endearing drive make her a true icon in the television comedy landscape.
- 6Estelle Getty
- Series: The Golden Girls
A tiny, feisty Sicilian senior citizen, she dominates every scene with her acerbic wit and blunt comments. Her no-nonsense attitude and sharp tongue don't detract from her love for family and friends, making her a beloved figure in the comedic series. With her infamous purse always at her side, she's a force to be reckoned with and an unforgettable classic TV character.
