Stand-up comedy is the ideal way to have a good laugh since throughout the whole set, a comedian will be entertaining a large crowd using nothing but a mic and maybe limited props. Thus, it is, more often than not, a one-man show that seems easy but is definitely one complex task. Not everyone is capable of being a stand-up comedian, and it is one of those entertainment fields in which either you become a hit or a miss.
In recent years, there have been many stand-up comedians who have entered the film industry and vice versa. From Ali Wong to Kevin Hart, these actors have proved that there are rare figures who can do both and still end up becoming the talk of the town. Given that stand-up comedy is something that comes naturally, there are several actors who are hilarious without even trying. These actors might be able to come up with some brilliant stand-up specials.
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10 Rowan Atkinson
Universal Pictures
Known for his infamous role as Mr. Bean, Atkinson was able to make the audience laugh for years without saying a single word. His facial expressions and body movements themselves contributed to the comical element in Mr. Bean. Even in the Johnny English franchise, Rowan Atkinson ensured the viewer was kept entertained through his subtle jokes and humorous behavior. What sets him apart from other comedians is that Atkinson is able to make the viewer laugh continuously, and he has proved that through his success as both Mr. Bean and Johnny English. If Atkinson is able to pursue stand-up comedy, his facial expressions and hilarious dialogues might bring forth a brilliant set.
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9 Steve Carell
NBCUniversal Television Distribution
This actor has won many Golden Globe Awards and Life magazine recognized him as “America’s funniest man”. It is obvious that Steve Carell is one actor with a ton of versatility. Carrell’s portrayal of Michael Scott in NBC’s adaptation of The Office might be one key reason as to why the show became super successful. Interestingly, even if Carrell portrayed minor roles or roles of antagonists in certain films, he was able to light them up using his comedic genius. One example is his portrayal of Officer Sherman Shiner in Sleepover, which might be one of the few reasons why the film had humor. It is undeniable that a stand-up special by Carrell would break the internet given his fame.
8 Melissa McCarthy
Melissa McCarthy is one actor who could make everyone in the room laugh while keeping a straight face. One instance she proves this is through her portrayal of an angry mother who goes on a rant against the principal in This is 40. In fact, McCarthy goes on to outshine Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann, who play the main characters of the film through this simple blooper reel, which, unfortunately, didn’t make it to the film as Rudd and Mann couldn’t contain their laughter due to McCarthy’s acting. McCarthy has illustrated her comical nature in many other films and shows like Bridesmaids and Mike and Molly.
7 Paul Rudd
Marvel StudiosDisney
Whether it be Ant-Man or Mike from Friends, Paul Rudd is funny without even trying. Even his portrayals on SNL are hilarious, making the viewer want to watch them again and again. This actor has won many hearts over the past years and his funny interview moments, which have become popular on Instagram, have gone on to reveal his ability to come up with instant comedy. Of course, Rudd’s stand-up comedy might end up being as pure as he is, but it will definitely make the crowd burst into laughter.
6 Kristen Wiig
Quirky, awkward, and bad decisions, more often than not, Kristen Wiig’s characters end up giving the viewer second-hand embarrassment. One such character is Annie Walker from Bridesmaids. Wiig is also well-known for her portrayals on SNL. With the character Gilly being one scary but funny skit, Wiig went on to prove that she can convert weird into humor. Furthermore, her success at SNL makes it obvious that she can be one superb stand-up comedian.
5 Issa Rae
Issa Rae’s web series Awkward Black Girl became popular quite fast due to its comedy and its relatability. This in itself shows how Rae is able to convert comedy out of everyday scenarios, which is a talent expected from stand-up comedians. Additionally, Rae’s rising fame in terms of comedic acting indicates that there is a large audience who are excited to see her comedy.
4 Ryan Reynolds
20th Century Fox
Who doesn’t love Ryan Reynolds’ humor? In Deadpool, he brought forth a form of humor that might only be suited for adults. This type of comedy is quite able to create waves of laughter simply because it illustrates the comedian’s ability to not be ashamed of any topic. Additionally, Reynolds has been cracking jokes everywhere he goes. From interviews to his social media, there is always some way in which Reynolds would make a joke which is good enough to go viral.
3 Andy Samberg
As an SNL cast member from 2005 to 2012, Andy Samberg created and became a part of some brilliant pieces. Finally, Samberg became the highlight of the series Brooklyn Nine-Nine due to his childish but hilarious character, Jake Peralta. These two experiences are clear evidence to show that Samberg has more than enough talent and content to try stand-up comedy.
2 Sofia Vergara
20th Television
Wherever Sofia Vergara goes there is comedy. She might not even try to be funny sometimes, but she does end up making some good jokes. Her portrayal of Gloria in Modern Family is still being talked about since this particular character is, undeniably, the biggest source of entertainment on the show. What is even better is that Vergara is probably one of those actors with plenty of good stories to share. She has already proven this through the many talk show interviews in which she has become a guest. Vergara might be able to cater to a larger audience than many other actors due to her ability to speak both English and Spanish.
1 Maya Rudolph
Sony Pictures Releasing
For anyone who has seen Rudolph’s Hot Wings interview, it is no question that she is one of the funniest people out there. Even Maya Rudolph’s SNL skits are major hits as they instantly evoke laughter. Additionally, Rudolph’s performances in films like Grown Ups, Bridesmaids, and Wine Country show that this is one person who is able to take comedy to the next level. There is no argument in the fact that if Rudolph enters the stand-up comedy field, she will take over it simply because she has already proven her status as a comedic genius.
