Back in Time Today
Explore the groundbreaking contributions of 30 remarkable women who forever changed the landscape of television comedy.
From timeless classics to modern-day hits, these sitcom legends have left an indelible mark on the genre, captivating audiences with their humor, wit, and unforgettable performances.
This list celebrates their unique talents and the enduring legacy they have created for future generations of comedians and fans alike.
1. Lucille Ball
Lucille Ball was a trailblazer in the world of television comedy, setting the standard for generations to come. Her groundbreaking sitcom, “I Love Lucy,” showcased her extraordinary talent for slapstick comedy and impeccable timing.
Ball’s portrayal of the lovable yet mischievous Lucy Ricardo captivated audiences and became a cultural phenomenon.
Her innovative approach to comedy, combined with her ability to break barriers as a female lead in the 1950s, solidified her status as a comedy legend. Ball’s influence extended beyond her performances, as she was also a successful producer, paving the way for women in television.
2. Mary Tyler Moore
Mary Tyler Moore redefined the role of women in sitcoms with her groundbreaking character, Mary Richards, on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.” Moore’s portrayal of a single, independent career woman was revolutionary for the 1970s, challenging traditional gender roles.
Her wit, charm, and relatability made her a beloved figure, inspiring countless women to pursue their dreams. Moore’s impact on television comedy extended beyond her acting; she was also a producer and advocate for social change.
Through her work, she demonstrated that women could be both funny and powerful, leaving an enduring legacy in television history.
3. Betty White
Betty White’s illustrious career spanned over eight decades, making her a beloved figure in television comedy. Known for her role as Rose Nylund on “The Golden Girls,” White’s comedic timing and lovable persona endeared her to audiences worldwide.
Her ability to bring humor and heart to her characters made her an enduring icon in the industry. Beyond her on-screen work, White’s passion for animal rights and philanthropy showcased her kindness and compassion.
Her legacy as a comedic legend is matched only by her genuine warmth and dedication to making the world a better place.
4. Carol Burnett
Carol Burnett’s groundbreaking variety show, “The Carol Burnett Show,” was a staple of television comedy in the 1960s and 1970s. Her unique blend of sketch comedy, musical numbers, and heartfelt moments made the show a beloved classic.
Burnett’s talent for physical comedy and her ability to connect with audiences set her apart as a comedic genius. Her iconic ear tug became a symbol of her gratitude to viewers, and her influence continues to inspire comedians today.
Through her work, Burnett demonstrated that women could lead successful comedy shows, breaking down barriers for future generations.
5. Julia Louis-Dreyfus
Julia Louis-Dreyfus has become one of the most celebrated actresses in television comedy, known for her roles in “Seinfeld” and “Veep.” Her portrayal of Elaine Benes on “Seinfeld” showcased her impeccable comedic timing and ability to create memorable characters.
In “Veep,” Louis-Dreyfus brought humor to the world of politics, earning critical acclaim and numerous awards. Her versatility as an actress and producer has made her a trailblazer in the industry, paving the way for future female comedians.
Louis-Dreyfus’s impact on television comedy is undeniable, and her contributions continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
6. Tina Fey
Tina Fey is a comedic powerhouse, known for her work on “Saturday Night Live” and “30 Rock.” Her sharp wit and clever writing have made her a defining voice in television comedy.
As the creator and star of “30 Rock,” Fey brought a unique perspective to the industry, blending satire with heartfelt storytelling.
Her portrayal of Liz Lemon resonated with audiences, offering a relatable and humorous take on the challenges of modern life.
Fey’s influence extends beyond her performances; she is a trailblazer for women in comedy, inspiring a new generation of female comedians to take the stage.
7. Ellen DeGeneres
Ellen DeGeneres broke new ground in television comedy with her sitcom “Ellen,” where she became one of the first openly gay characters on TV. Her humor and authenticity resonated with audiences, making her a beloved figure in the industry.
DeGeneres’s courage to be true to herself paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in media. Beyond her sitcom, her successful talk show further cemented her status as a comedic icon.
Through her work, DeGeneres has demonstrated the power of laughter and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on television and inspiring positive change.
8. Phylicia Rashad
Phylicia Rashad became a household name with her role as Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show.” Her portrayal of a strong, intelligent, and loving mother challenged stereotypes and offered a new representation of African-American families on television.
Rashad’s grace and talent made her a beloved figure, and her influence extended beyond her performances. As a trailblazer for African-American women in television, she paved the way for future generations of actresses.
Rashad’s contributions to sitcoms and her commitment to representation have left a lasting impact on the industry, inspiring audiences around the world.
9. Roseanne Barr
Roseanne Barr revolutionized television comedy with her sitcom “Roseanne,” which offered a candid portrayal of a working-class family. Her humor and authenticity resonated with audiences, making “Roseanne” a groundbreaking show in the 1990s.
Barr’s ability to tackle real-life issues with humor and honesty set her apart as a comedic trailblazer. Her influence extended beyond her performances, as she challenged traditional norms and expanded the possibilities for women in sitcoms.
Through her work, Barr demonstrated the power of comedy to reflect and address societal issues, leaving an enduring legacy in television history.
10. Rita Moreno
Rita Moreno’s illustrious career spans over seven decades, making her a legendary figure in the entertainment industry. Known for her role as Lydia Riera on “One Day at a Time,” Moreno’s vibrant performances brought humor and heart to the show.
Her ability to portray complex characters with depth and authenticity has made her a beloved figure in television comedy. Beyond her work on-screen, Moreno’s advocacy for diversity and representation has inspired positive change in the industry.
Her contributions to sitcoms and her commitment to social justice have left an indelible mark on television history.
11. Candice Bergen
Candice Bergen made television history with her role as Murphy Brown, a tough and intelligent news anchor, on the sitcom “Murphy Brown.” Her portrayal challenged traditional gender roles and offered a fresh perspective on women in the workforce.
Bergen’s wit and charisma made her a beloved figure, and her influence extended beyond her performances. As a trailblazer for women in television, she paved the way for future generations of actresses.
Bergen’s contributions to sitcoms and her commitment to representation have left a lasting impact on the industry, inspiring audiences around the world.
12. Angela Kinsey
Angela Kinsey, best known for her role as Angela Martin on ‘The Office,’ has become a beloved figure in comedy. Her portrayal of the uptight accountant with a soft spot for cats was both hilarious and endearing.
Kinsey’s comedic timing and ability to deliver deadpan humor made Angela Martin an unforgettable character.
Beyond ‘The Office,’ Angela has continued to engage audiences with her podcast and social media presence.
Her real-life humor and relatability have made her a favorite among fans. She’s a perfect example of how a supporting character can steal the spotlight and become a sitcom legend.
13. Fran Drescher
Fran Drescher became a household name with her role as Fran Fine on the hit sitcom “The Nanny.” Her distinctive voice and comedic flair made her an iconic figure in television comedy.
Drescher’s portrayal of Fran, a lovable and quirky nanny, captivated audiences with her humor and charm. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for cancer awareness and LGBTQ+ rights.
Through her work, Drescher has demonstrated the power of comedy to entertain and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the industry and touching the hearts of viewers worldwide.
14. Jane Fonda
Jane Fonda’s illustrious career spans decades, and her work on the sitcom “Grace and Frankie” has further solidified her status as a television icon. Her portrayal of Grace Hanson, a sophisticated and witty retiree, showcases her comedic talent and ability to connect with audiences.
Fonda’s influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for social justice and environmental causes.
Through her work, she has demonstrated the power of comedy to address important issues while entertaining viewers. Her legacy in television comedy is marked by her versatility and commitment to making a positive impact.
15. Lena Dunham
Lena Dunham made waves in television comedy with her show “Girls,” where she served as creator, writer, and star. Her portrayal of Hannah Horvath, a young woman navigating life in New York City, resonated with a generation.
Dunham’s candid and humorous approach to storytelling offered a fresh perspective on the challenges of modern adulthood.
Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for body positivity and mental health awareness. Through her work, Dunham has demonstrated the power of authenticity and vulnerability in comedy, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
16. Melissa McCarthy
Melissa McCarthy has become one of the most beloved figures in television comedy, known for her role as Molly Flynn on “Mike & Molly.” Her comedic timing and relatable charm made her a fan favorite.
McCarthy’s ability to bring humor and heart to her characters has made her a standout in the industry. Beyond her work on-screen, McCarthy’s commitment to body positivity and self-acceptance has inspired countless fans.
Through her performances, she has demonstrated the power of comedy to connect with audiences and promote positive change, leaving an enduring legacy in television.
17. Issa Rae
Issa Rae has become a defining voice in television comedy with her hit series “Insecure.” Her portrayal of Issa Dee, a relatable and humorous character navigating life in Los Angeles, resonated with audiences.
Rae’s unique perspective and authentic storytelling have made her a trailblazer in the industry, paving the way for greater diversity and representation. Beyond her work on-screen, Rae has been an advocate for social justice and empowerment.
Through her performances, she has demonstrated the power of comedy to reflect real-life experiences and inspire positive change, leaving a lasting impact on television.
18. Alison Brie
Alison Brie’s role as Annie Edison on the sitcom “Community” showcased her comedic talent and versatility. Her portrayal of a driven and endearing character resonated with audiences, making her a standout in the ensemble cast.
Brie’s ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments made her a beloved figure in television comedy. Beyond her performances, Brie has been an advocate for diversity and representation in media.
Through her work, she has demonstrated the power of comedy to connect with audiences and inspire positive change, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and her fans.
19. Kristen Wiig
Kristen Wiig became a standout performer on “Saturday Night Live,” where her comedic talent and versatility shone through. Her memorable characters and sharp wit made her a fan favorite.
Wiig’s ability to bring humor to a wide range of roles has made her a defining figure in television comedy. Beyond her work on “SNL,” Wiig’s contributions to film and television have further solidified her status as a comedic powerhouse.
Through her performances, she has demonstrated the power of comedy to entertain and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the industry and capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide.
20. Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling has become a defining voice in television comedy with her work on “The Office” and “The Mindy Project.” Her sharp wit and clever writing have made her a standout in the industry.
As the creator and star of “The Mindy Project,” Kaling brought a unique perspective to television, blending humor with relatable storytelling.
Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for diversity and representation. Through her work, Kaling has demonstrated the power of comedy to connect with audiences and promote positive change, leaving an enduring legacy in television.
21. Amy Poehler
Amy Poehler’s role as Leslie Knope on “Parks and Recreation” showcased her comedic talents and leadership ability. Her portrayal of a passionate and dedicated public servant resonated with audiences, making her a beloved figure in television comedy.
Poehler’s influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Through her work, Poehler has demonstrated the power of comedy to inspire and uplift, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and her fans. Her legacy as a comedic icon is marked by her warmth, humor, and commitment to positive change.
22. Lily Tomlin
Lily Tomlin’s illustrious career in television comedy spans decades, making her a beloved figure in the industry. Her role as Frankie Bergstein on “Grace and Frankie” showcases her comedic talent and ability to connect with audiences.
Tomlin’s influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for social justice and LGBTQ+ rights. Through her work, Tomlin has demonstrated the power of comedy to address important issues while entertaining viewers.
Her legacy in television comedy is marked by her versatility and commitment to making a positive impact, leaving an enduring mark on the industry.
23. Sofia Vergara
Sofia Vergara became a household name with her role as Gloria Pritchett on the hit sitcom “Modern Family.” Her comedic timing and vibrant personality made her a standout in the ensemble cast.
Vergara’s portrayal of Gloria, a loving and fiery character, resonated with audiences, making her a beloved figure in television comedy. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for diversity and representation in media.
Through her work, Vergara has demonstrated the power of comedy to connect with audiences and inspire positive change, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
24. Kaley Cuoco
Kaley Cuoco’s role as Penny on “The Big Bang Theory” made her a beloved figure in television comedy. Her comedic timing and relatable charm made her a fan favorite.
Cuoco’s portrayal of Penny, a fun-loving and down-to-earth character, resonated with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on friendship and modern life. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for animal rights and mental health awareness.
Through her work, Cuoco has demonstrated the power of comedy to entertain and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the industry and touching the hearts of viewers worldwide.
25. Julia Child
Julia Child was not only a culinary icon but also a trailblazer in television comedy. Her cooking show, “The French Chef,” brought humor and warmth to the art of cooking, captivating audiences with her joyful approach.
Child’s ability to make cooking accessible and entertaining made her a beloved figure in television history. Beyond her work in the kitchen, Child’s influence extended to breaking down barriers for women in media.
Through her work, Child demonstrated the power of connecting with audiences through laughter and passion, leaving an enduring legacy in both the culinary and entertainment worlds.
26. Zoe Saldana
Zoe Saldana’s vibrant performances have made her a beloved figure in television comedy. Known for her role as Rosemary on “Rosemary’s Baby,” Saldana’s talent and charisma shine through.
Her ability to bring humor and depth to her characters has made her a standout in the industry. Beyond her performances, Saldana has been an advocate for diversity and representation in media.
Through her work, Saldana has demonstrated the power of comedy to entertain and inspire, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and touching the hearts of audiences worldwide with her unique blend of humor and grace.
27. Linda Cardellini
Linda Cardellini, known for her role as Judy Hale in ‘Dead to Me,’ showcases her ability to blend comedy with drama. Her character, a complex woman with a mysterious past, brings both laughter and intrigue to the screen. Cardellini’s performance captivates audiences with its authenticity.
Her diverse range of roles across television and film demonstrates her remarkable talent. Linda’s ability to engage viewers in various genres makes her a standout in the sitcom world. Her work in ‘Dead to Me’ solidifies her status as a sitcom legend, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
28. Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross has become a defining voice in television comedy with her role as Rainbow Johnson on “Black-ish.” Her comedic timing and relatable charm have made her a beloved figure in the industry.
Ross’s portrayal of Rainbow, a loving and career-driven mother, resonates with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on family life. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for diversity and representation in media.
Through her work, Ross has demonstrated the power of comedy to connect with audiences and inspire positive change, leaving a lasting impact on television.
29. Zooey Deschanel
Zooey Deschanel charmed audiences with her role as Jessica Day on the hit sitcom “New Girl.” Her quirky charm and comedic flair made her a standout in television comedy.
Deschanel’s portrayal of Jess, a lovable and eccentric character, resonated with viewers, offering a fresh take on friendship and modern life. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for creativity and individuality.
Through her work, Deschanel has demonstrated the power of comedy to connect with audiences and inspire positive change, leaving an enduring legacy in the industry and touching the hearts of fans worldwide.
30. Lisa Kudrow
Lisa Kudrow became a beloved figure in television comedy with her role as Phoebe Buffay on “Friends.” Her unique comedic style and endearing charm made her a fan favorite.
Kudrow’s portrayal of Phoebe, a quirky and lovable character, resonated with audiences, offering a fresh perspective on friendship and modern life. Her influence extends beyond her performances, as she has been an advocate for mental health awareness and representation in media.
Through her work, Kudrow has demonstrated the power of comedy to entertain and inspire, leaving an enduring legacy in the industry and touching the hearts of viewers worldwide.