There is no better cure for a low spirit than a good laugh, and that is what the best black comedians promise. They are good at making anyone who watches them laugh, be it through standup comedies or sitcoms. From old school faces like Steve Harvey and Martin Lawrence to fresher faces like Trevor Noah and Tiffany Haddish, there is a perfect comedian for every generation.
These laugh masters can act foolish and crack silly jokes just to make you smile. Their purpose is to entertain, and they earn a living from it. Laughter has a unique ability to unite people, transcending cultural and social barriers. By sharing their experiences, these comedians not only entertain us but also provide insight into life through their distinct perspectives.
Table of Contents
- Best Black Comedians of All Time Ranked
- Trevor Noah
- Tiffany Haddish
- Sherri Shepherd
- Lori Ann Rambough (Sommore)
- Monique Angela (Mo’Nique)
- Katt Williams
- Martin Lawrence
- Steve Harvey
- Mike Epps
- Kevin Hart
Best Black Comedians of All Time Ranked
Here are the 10 best current black comedians:
10. Trevor Noah
Trevor Noah is a South African-born standup comedian who is arguably the most accomplished African comic. His highlight year was 2015 when he succeeded John Steward as The Daily Show host. His first guest at the popular show was fellow comedian Kevin Hart.
Born in Soweto, South Africa in 1984 to a German-Swiss father and South African mother, Trevor experienced the challenges of apartheid firsthand. To avoid segregation, his parents hid their relationship, which inspired much of his comedic material.
Noah developed an interest in comedy during his 20s, encouraged by friends who dared him to perform. His multilingual abilities allowed him to connect with diverse audiences, making his humor relatable across cultures. In 2009, he shot his first documentary, The Day Walker, and launched his show Tonight with Trevor the following year, which led to his current success.
9. Tiffany Haddish
Tiffany Haddish began her comedy career in supportive roles before earning her spot among the best black female comedians of her generation. Born in Los Angeles in 1979, she turned to comedy as a way to cope with her mother's accident and brain injury.
Her big break came in 2017 with the movie Girls Trip, which earned her an Emmy Award the following year. Her memoir, The Last Black Unicorn, reflects her challenging childhood and offers life advice from her experiences.
Despite facing homelessness, Haddish persevered and found her way into the comedy scene, performing on shows like Def Comedy Jam and That’s So Raven. Her charisma and unique style have made her a beloved figure in entertainment.
8. Sherri Shepherd
Sherri Shepherd is a bold and hilarious comedian born in Chicago in 1967. She started her career in stand-up comedy in 1990, quitting her secretarial job to pursue her passion. Her first gig came shortly after, but she faced challenges returning to her old job when her series was canceled.
Shepherd's persistence paid off, leading to her stand-up comedy CD/DVD releases and a significant role on The View, which earned her an Emmy Award in 2009. Recognized by Forbes and Time Magazine, she has made a name for herself in both comedy and acting.
She has also authored bestsellers, including Plan D: How to Lose Weight. Beyond her career, she advocates for children with special needs, showcasing her commitment to making a difference in the community.
7. Lori Ann Rambough (Sommore)
Sommore is a renowned black female comedian born in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1966. She attended Morris Brown College, where she studied Business Administration and Mathematics. Her career includes appearances in popular TV shows and comedy specials, showcasing her talent and versatility.
She has been featured on Comic View, Comedy Central Roast, and her own Netflix special, Sommore: The Reign Continues. Known for her sassiness and humor, she was recognized with the Richard Pryor Award and made a mark in the comedy scene.
Sommore's ability to appeal to various generations makes her a beloved figure, and she has successfully produced shows that attract large audiences.
6. Monique Angela (Mo’Nique)
Born in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1967, Mo’Nique is a celebrated comedian and actress. She has a dynamic career that includes notable roles in The Parkers and films like Precious. Her journey in comedy began at the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland, and she quickly made a name for herself.
Mo’Nique's stand-up often addresses race and societal issues, resonating with audiences. She has hosted various shows and authored bestsellers, including Skinny Women Are Evil, which highlights her experiences and insights.
Her accolades include multiple BET Awards and a Grammy nomination, showcasing her impact on the entertainment industry.
5. Katt Williams
Katt Williams, born in 1971 in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a multi-talented performer known for his comedy, music, and acting. Starting as a street vendor, he honed his comedic skills while moving around the country, eventually reaching great heights in the comedy scene.
His stand-up shows, including Katt Williams Live: Let a Playa Play, have received critical acclaim. Williams has also ventured into music, producing tracks that highlight his unique style and humor.
Despite facing personal challenges, Williams continues to entertain and inspire audiences with his thought-provoking and humorous content.
4. Martin Lawrence
Martin Lawrence, born in 1965 in Frankfurt, Germany, is a pioneering figure in comedy and entertainment. He gained fame through iconic movies like Bad Boys and the sitcom Martin, which became a cultural phenomenon. Lawrence's comedic journey began in his childhood, and he quickly established himself as a leading figure in stand-up comedy.
His ability to connect with audiences through relatable humor has solidified his status as one of the best in the industry. Lawrence's accolades include numerous awards and nominations, showcasing his impact on comedy and film.
Through his work, he has paved the way for future comedians, demonstrating the importance of authenticity and resilience in the entertainment world.
3. Steve Harvey
Steve Harvey is a legendary comedian and television host, known for his candid relationship advice and humor. Born in West Virginia in 1957, he overcame various challenges before finding success in comedy. Harvey's career took off after winning a comedy competition, leading to his iconic role on Showtime at the Apollo.
His hit sitcom, The Steve Harvey Show, and numerous other projects have made him a household name. Through his platform, he addresses important social issues and offers valuable life lessons, making him a respected figure in the industry.
Harvey's achievements include multiple Daytime Emmy Awards and recognition as a best-selling author, highlighting his diverse talents and influence.
2. Mike Epps
Mike Epps, born in 1970 in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a prominent comedian and actor known for his charismatic performances. He began his career on Def Comedy Jam and quickly gained recognition for his unique style. Epps has starred in several successful films, including Next Friday and The Hangover, showcasing his versatility in both comedy and drama.
His ability to connect with audiences through relatable humor has solidified his status in the industry. Epps also engages with fans through various platforms, sharing
