Top 5 Funniest Female Comedians of All Time | Consensus Picks

1. Jackie “Moms” Mabley

“Moms” Mabley was truly a trailblazer in the world of comedy, and her story is nothing short of extraordinary. Biography paints her as a groundbreaking figure who defied the norms of her time. Despite facing immense personal hardship—including losing both her parents and enduring traumatic experiences during her youth—Mabley channeled her struggles into her comedy. She found her voice in Vaudeville and on the Chitlin’ Circuit, crafting a stage persona inspired by her grandmother, the only stable influence she had growing up.

Her impact on the comedy scene was significant, according to The Manual. Mabley wasn’t just a woman breaking into comedy at a time when it was dominated by men; she was also a pioneer as a female comic of color and one of the first openly queer comedians. Her talent and bravery in confronting social issues made her a formidable and influential voice in 20th-century comedy.

Vogue commends Mabley for her fearless approach to comedy, tackling topics that were considered taboo. As a veteran of the Chitlin’ Circuit and a Black lesbian comedian, she addressed issues like racism and sexuality with a boldness that was ahead of her time. It’s impossible to imagine the comedy landscape today without her groundbreaking influence.

2. Joan Rivers

Joan Rivers was a comedic powerhouse whose razor-sharp wit and fearless approach to humor left an indelible mark on the industry. According to The Top Tens, Rivers was known for her controversial and often biting humor, effortlessly blending self-deprecation with acerbic jabs at celebrities and politicians. Her unique style set her apart, making her a true legend in the world of comedy.

Rolling Stone mentions Rivers’ audacious spirit, noting that she not only made her mark in a male-dominated field but also built her own comedic empire. With her iconic catchphrase, “Can we talk?” Rivers created a special space for herself in the entertainment world, where her bold humor and cheeky remarks became her signature. Her ability to push boundaries and challenge societal norms was a hallmark of her career.

TimeOut praises Rivers for her relentless drive and barrier-breaking achievements, emphasizing how she defied expectations related to age and gender throughout her career. She continued performing with vigor and sharp wit until her passing, unapologetically confronting Hollywood’s elite with her quick-paced routines on topics like beauty and celebrity.

3. Ellen Degeneres

Ellen DeGeneres has carved out a legendary spot in the world of comedy, and it’s no wonder. According to Siachen Studios, she rose to fame in a big way, becoming a household name with a career that spans stand-up and daytime TV. Who could have predicted that Ellen, with her sharp wit and charm, would become one of the most beloved female comedians? Not only did her live performances win rave reviews, but she also made history as the first female comedian to take a seat on Johnny Carson’s iconic couch on “The Tonight Show.”

Reel Rundown walks us through Ellen’s impressive journey through comedy. During the 1980s, she was hitting the road, performing stand-up comedy across the country. Her efforts paid off in 1982 when she was named Showtime’s Funniest Person in America. The ’90s and early 2000s saw Ellen expanding her influence with two successful sitcoms and even hosting “Saturday Night Live” in 2001.

4. Phyllis Diller

Phyllis Diller was a trailblazer in the industry, known for her wild hair, cackling laugh, self-deprecating humor and outlandish persona. According to Entertainism, Diller’s comedic journey started at San Francisco’s Purple Onion nightclub and quickly soared to TV fame with standout roles in shows like “Boy, Did I Get a Wrong Number!” and “Eight on the Lam” between 1966 and 1968. Her bold persona and zany humor set her apart in the entertainment world.

YardBarker says that Diller wasn’t a young up-and-comer when she first hit the stand-up scene; she was 37, having done comedic segments on local TV before her breakthrough. Her initial two-week stint at the Purple Onion turned into a nearly two-year engagement, launching her into stardom. Diller not only became a household name but also a trailblazer and a pioneering gay icon in comedy.

Diller’s impact on comedy was undeniable, as she became one of the first female comedians to achieve widespread fame. Her distinctive style, complete with a wooden cigarette and other comedic props, became iconic. Her career, which spanned decades, showcased her role as a groundbreaking figure in the comedy world, blending humor with a touch of outrageous flair.

5. Ali Wong

Critics have praised Wong for fearlessly tackling taboo subjects and hilariously challenging audiences’ assumptions and beliefs. The National Women’s History Museum applauds her for shattering stereotypes and making groundbreaking strides in comedy. Her 2016 special, “Baby Cobra,” was the first comedy special filmed by a comedian while pregnant. Not stopping there, Wong followed up with “Hard Knock Wife” in 2018, also filmed during pregnancy.

Cosmopolitan also shines a spotlight on Wong’s standout moments, particularly her impactful “Baby Cobra” special. Tackling topics like sex, hoarding, and feminism while seven months pregnant, she captured audiences with her raw and relatable humor. Beyond stand-up, Wong has expanded her influence with her Netflix rom-com “Always Be My Maybe.”