Buzz
The world of comedy has always celebrated larger-than-life figures who bring immense joy and laughter. These comedians, often known for their size, have consistently been among the most beloved and iconic entertainers of their eras. Their talents span various formats, from stand-up routines to sketch shows and blockbuster films, leaving audiences in stitches. This raises an intriguing question: who are the top ten funniest overweight comedians in history?
Compiling such a list is no easy task, as it includes a mix of movie stars, slapstick performers, and stand-up legends. Personal preferences will inevitably play a role, but here’s a compilation of ten of the most hilarious larger comedians, presented in no specific order.
10. Chris Farley
Chris Farley rose to fame through his exceptional talent in improvisational comedy, eventually becoming a standout star on Saturday Night Live. His career continued to flourish with a brief yet impactful stint in movies before his untimely passing. Renowned for his boisterous, high-energy characters and physical humor reminiscent of classic slapstick, Farley's legacy lives on through his immensely popular “Best of Chris Farley” SNL DVD, one of the best-selling in the series.
9. Lou Costello
A legendary figure in comedy, Lou Costello, the larger half of the iconic duo Abbott and Costello, was known for his straight-man act alongside the slender, witty Abbott. Together, they created timeless comedic magic. Their most celebrated routine, “Who’s on First?”—a clever wordplay skit about a baseball team with hilariously named players—remains a benchmark for comedic miscommunication and continues to be referenced today.
8. Cedric the Entertainer
Cedric the Entertainer stands out not just for his larger-than-life persona but also as one of the most celebrated African-American comedians. Beyond his remarkable stand-up career, which features multiple acclaimed performances at the prestigious Apollo Theatre and several HBO specials, Cedric has also made a mark in film. One of his most memorable roles is Eddie, the wise elder barber in the hit movie “Barbershop.”
7. John Candy
Anyone who missed out on watching “Uncle Buck” or “Planes, Trains & Automobiles” during their childhood has truly missed out. These classic John Candy films are a must-watch for comedy lovers. Candy, a brilliant larger-than-life comedian, also shined in “Spaceballs” and numerous other iconic films, cementing his status as a legendary figure in cinematic comedy.
6. Ralphie May
Ralphie May embodies the quintessential “big guy comedian.” A standout in stand-up comedy, Ralphie once tipped the scales at nearly 800 pounds. He gained recognition as the first runner-up on the reality series “Last Comic Standing” and later appeared on “Celebrity Fit Club.” With two Comedy Central specials and a platinum-selling DVD to his name, Ralphie remains a prominent figure in comedy. Despite his ongoing weight loss journey, he humorously quips, “Don’t applaud, I lost an entire fat man and I’m still fat as h–l!” Still in his early thirties, Ralphie has the potential for many more successful years in the industry.
5. John Belushi
John Belushi was a trailblazing star during the early days of Saturday Night Live, inspiring future comedians like Chris Farley. His versatility in playing both the straight man and the wild slapstick roles solidified his status as a comedy legend, revered by both movie and sketch comedy fans. Belushi’s iconic moments on SNL, including his unforgettable impromptu imitation of Joe Cocker during a live performance, cemented his place among the greatest comedians of all time. So, which of his legendary roles do you favor: “Joliet” Jake Blues from The Blues Brothers or Bluto from Animal House?
4. Gabriel Iglesias
Gabriel Iglesias is a rising star in stand-up comedy, gaining immense popularity through his specials. Known for his impressive vocal impersonations and his humorous take on body image, he coined the term “fluffy” to describe being just shy of “damn!” levels of heaviness. While Iglesias has primarily focused on stand-up, his exceptional talent suggests he could easily transition into other entertainment avenues in the future.
3. Rodney Dangerfield
It’s high time this legendary comedian receives the recognition he’s earned. Rodney Dangerfield, one of the most iconic stand-up comedians in history, also boasts an impressive filmography. Famous for his signature line, “I don’t get no respect,” Dangerfield built a remarkable career on self-deprecating humor. Topping the list as the ultimate “fat guy comic,” Dangerfield remains a highly respected figure in comedy.
Contributor: Shane Dayton
2. Curly Howard
No list of hilarious overweight comedians would be complete without mentioning the most famous of The Three Stooges. Known for their slapstick genius, the trio’s antics revolved around three bumbling characters who never quite got things right. Unfortunately, Curly’s success took a toll on him, leading to excessive drinking, smoking, and overeating, as he struggled with the belief that his shaved head diminished his charm.
1. Oliver Hardy
Long before Abbott & Costello or Chris Farley & David Spade, there was the legendary duo of Laurel & Hardy. This iconic pair starred in countless films, with “Babes in Toyland” being one of their most enduring works. Their famous line, “Well, here’s another nice mess you’ve gotten me into!” remains a classic, though it’s often misquoted.
