The Best Stand-up Comedians of All Time

1. Eddie Murphy

Also Known As: Edward Regan Murphy

Birthday: 03 April 1961

Born In: Brooklyn, New York, United States

Sun Sign: Aries

While Eddie Murphy is much popular as a film actor today, he began his career as a stand-up comedian. As a man of color, he often includes topics like racism, race relations, and African-American culture in his performances. He is a patron of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center.

2. Chris Rock

Also Known As: Christopher Julius Rock

Birthday: 07 February 1965

Born In: Andrews, South Carolina, United States

Sun Sign: Aquarius

Voted one of the greatest stand-up comedians in a poll conducted by Comedy Central, Chris Rock is a highly influential figure in the American comedy scene. Apart from being a comedian, the multifaceted star is also an actor, writer, producer, and director. He is particularly popular for developing the sitcom ‘Everybody Hates Chris,’ which was based on his early life.

3. George Carlin

Also Known As: George Denis Patrick Carlin

Birthday: 12 May 1937

Born In: Manhattan, New York, United States

Sun Sign: Taurus

Died On: 22 June 2008

Dubbed "the dean of counterculture comedians," George Carlin was not only an exceptional comedian but also a social critic, philosopher, and author. He was especially popular for his dark comedy and commentary on taboo subjects. Professionally active until the day he died, he was posthumously awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

4. Richard Pryor

Also Known As: Richard Franklin Lennox Thomas Pryor Sr

Birthday: 01 December 1940

Born In: Peoria, Illinois, United States

Sun Sign: Sagittarius

Died On: 10 December 2005

Regarded as one of the greatest stand-up comedians of all time, Richard Pryor was particularly popular for his storytelling style of comedy. A much-decorated star, he had been honored with five Grammy Awards and the first-ever Kennedy Center Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

5. Dave Chappelle

Also Known As: David Khari Webber Chappelle

Birthday: 24 August 1973

Born In: Washington, D.C., United States

Sun Sign: Virgo

Comedian, actor, and writer Dave Chappelle is one of those entertainers who are popular with the masses as well as recognized by the industry experts. With three Grammy Awards and a Mark Twain Prize to his name, he is undoubtedly one of the best comedians America has ever seen.