17 Comedy Legends Who Defined The 1970s
The 1970s rewrote the rules of comedy, trading polished punchlines for sharper edges, fearless honesty, and personalities that felt larger than life.
Some comedians leaned into satire, others into physical chaos or observational brilliance, but each one left an imprint that still echoes today.
This is a celebration of seventeen legends who turned the 1970s into a defining era for comedy.
Disclaimer: All selections and descriptions are based on opinion and historical interpretation rather than any objective or absolute measure of comedic influence or legacy.
1. Richard Pryor
Raw honesty mixed with fearless humor made this comedian an absolute powerhouse during the decade.
He tackled race, society, and personal struggles with a style nobody had seen before.
Films like Silver Streak showcased his incredible range beyond the stage.
His influence still echoes through comedy today, inspiring countless performers to speak their truth.
2. George Carlin
Words became weapons in the hands of this master comedian who questioned everything around him.
His routines went beyond jokes, diving deep into social issues and language itself.
People laughed while their minds opened to new perspectives about everyday life.
If you wanted comedy that made you think harder than a math test, this was your guy.
His legacy lives on in every comedian who dares to challenge the system.
3. Johnny Carson
Late-night television found its king when this charming host took over living rooms across America.
His quick wit and perfect timing turned The Tonight Show into appointment viewing for millions.
Guests loved him, audiences adored him, and comedians dreamed of sitting on his couch.
Though technically a host, his comedic timing influenced an entire generation of performers.
Nobody could deliver a monologue quite like this legend.
4. Carol Burnett
Sketch comedy reached new heights when this talented performer brought musical numbers and character work together perfectly.
Her variety show became a weekly celebration of laughter, featuring unforgettable characters and hilarious situations.
She proved women could command a stage and audience with pure comedic brilliance.
That famous ear tug at the end of each show? Pure heart and connection with fans everywhere.
5. Mel Brooks
Parody films became an art form thanks to this creative genius who spoofed everything from westerns to horror movies.
Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein showed audiences that smart comedy could also be absolutely hilarious.
His fearless approach to satire broke barriers and pushed boundaries nobody else dared touch.
How many directors can make you laugh while also making you think?
This one definitely could.
6. Chevy Chase
Physical comedy got a fresh face when this performer stumbled onto Saturday Night Live and into America’s hearts.
His Weekend Update segments and pratfalls became instant classics that everyone quoted at school the next day.
That deadpan delivery mixed with slapstick created something completely unique and unforgettable.
Though his SNL run was brief, the impact lasted way longer than a commercial break.
7. Bill Murray
Dry wit and understated humor became this comedian’s calling card when he joined television’s hottest sketch show.
His characters felt real yet absurd, making audiences laugh at the ridiculousness of everyday situations.
That signature smirk could convey more comedy than most people’s entire routines.
8. Steve Martin
Wild, zany, and completely unpredictable comedy exploded when this performer brought props and absurdity to the stage.
That arrow-through-the-head gag became iconic, while his banjo playing added musical magic to the madness.
Catchphrases like “excuuuuse me” entered the cultural vocabulary faster than you could blink.
If comedy needed a shot of pure, unfiltered weirdness, this guy delivered it with style and charm.
9. Gene Wilder
Manic energy and heartfelt emotion blended perfectly in this actor’s unforgettable comedic performances throughout the decade.
Young Frankenstein showcased his ability to be both hilarious and genuinely touching in the same scene.
Those wide eyes and explosive reactions created moments that still make people laugh decades later.
Though primarily known for film work, his comedic timing influenced performers across all entertainment mediums.
10. Don Rickles
Insult comedy found its undisputed champion in this sharp-tongued performer who roasted everyone with surprising affection.
Audiences lined up to be insulted by the Merchant of Venom, knowing the barbs came with genuine warmth.
His unique style proved you could be mean and lovable at the exact same time.
11. Joan Rivers
Breaking barriers became second nature to this trailblazing comedian who refused to let anyone silence her voice.
Her fearless approach to comedy opened doors for countless women who followed in her footsteps.
Self-deprecating humor mixed with sharp observations about life created a style uniquely her own.
When the comedy world said women couldn’t headline, she proved them wrong with style and determination.
12. Bob Newhart
Deadpan delivery reached perfection through this comedian’s understated style and brilliant timing throughout the decade.
His sitcom showcased a humor that relied on reactions rather than punchlines, creating comedy gold from awkward situations.
That stammering, hesitant delivery became instantly recognizable and endlessly imitated by fans.
13. Peter Sellers
Character transformation became an art form when this British comedian disappeared completely into every role he played.
Inspector Clouseau bumbled through Pink Panther films, creating physical comedy that transcended language barriers worldwide.
His chameleon-like ability to embody different personalities made each performance feel like meeting someone entirely new.
14. Gilda Radner
Quirky characters came to life through this original Saturday Night Live cast member who created unforgettable personalities.
Roseanne Roseannadanna and Emily Litella became instant favorites, showcasing her incredible range and comedic instincts.
Her offbeat beauty and genuine warmth made audiences fall in love with every character she portrayed.
15. Redd Foxx
Sassy humor and quick wit made this comedian a household name through his groundbreaking television sitcom.
Sanford and Son showcased his incredible timing and ability to deliver cutting one-liners with perfect precision.
His work opened doors for African American performers in television, changing the industry landscape forever.
That famous clutching-chest-calling-for-Elizabeth routine?
Comedy gold that still gets referenced today by fans everywhere.
16. Sid Caesar
Though his peak came earlier, this comedy pioneer continued influencing the 1970s scene with his legendary sketch work.
His improvisational skills and physical comedy set the standard that younger comedians studied and emulated religiously.
Writers who worked under him became comedy royalty themselves, spreading his influence throughout entertainment.
17. Lily Tomlin
Character comedy reached brilliant heights when this versatile performer brought Ernestine the telephone operator to life.
Her ability to create distinct personalities with unique voices and mannerisms made each character feel completely real.
From Laugh-In to her own specials, she demonstrated that smart, observational humor could entertain millions.
