Top Ten Comedy Icons: Legends of Laughter
Introduction
Comedy is like a good cup of tea—strong, comforting, and best served with a biscuit or two. Over the years, Britain has produced some of the funniest faces ever to grace our television screens. These comedy legends have made us laugh until our sides ache, with their brilliant timing, unforgettable catchphrases, and hilarious characters.
So, pop the kettle on, grab a biscuit, and join us as we count down the top ten comedy icons of all time!
1. John Cleese as Basil Fawlty
If there was ever a masterclass in comedic chaos, it would be Fawlty Towers. John Cleese’s portrayal of the permanently frazzled hotel owner, Basil Fawlty, is nothing short of genius. Whether he’s shouting at Manuel, rolling his eyes at Sybil, or attacking a poor, unsuspecting car with a tree branch, Basil is the epitome of hilarious frustration. His explosive temper and razor-sharp sarcasm make him one of the greatest comedy characters of all time.
2. Ronnie Barker as Fletcher
Norman Stanley Fletcher, better known as just "Fletch," is the ultimate lovable rogue. Porridge turned the inside of a prison into a playground of witty one-liners, all thanks to Ronnie Barker’s effortless delivery. Fletch was always one step ahead of the guards and never short of a clever quip. Who knew life behind bars could be so funny?
3. Leonard Rossiter as Rupert Rigsby
If you like your comedy with a side of sneering superiority, look no further than Rupert Rigsby from Rising Damp. Leonard Rossiter brought this grumpy, penny-pinching landlord to life with his exaggerated expressions and gloriously pompous put-downs. Rigsby’s obsession with Miss Jones and his rivalry with his tenants made for some of the funniest moments in sitcom history.
4. Steve Coogan as Alan Partridge
Ah-ha! Alan Partridge, the king of cringe. Steve Coogan’s most famous creation is a car crash of a character—a former TV presenter turned radio host who thinks he’s far more important than he actually is. Whether he’s offending his guests, pitching ridiculous TV show ideas, or living in a Travel Tavern, Alan Partridge is the perfect mix of delusion and disaster.
5. Ricky Gervais as David Brent
Before awkward humour became the norm, there was David Brent. The unbearable boss from The Office is a walking, talking lesson in how NOT to manage people. Ricky Gervais gave us a character so painfully unaware of his own social awkwardness that we couldn’t look away. His terrible jokes, cringeworthy dance moves, and desperate need to be liked make Brent a comedy icon.
6. Arthur Lowe as Captain Mainwaring
Don’t tell him, Pike! Captain Mainwaring of Dad’s Army is the most pompous, self-important Home Guard leader ever. Played to perfection by Arthur Lowe, Mainwaring’s constant blunders and rivalry with Sergeant Wilson never fail to amuse. His unwavering belief in his own authority (despite being completely incompetent) is what makes him so brilliantly funny.
7. Richard Wilson as Victor Meldrew
"I don’t believe it!" If you’ve ever had one of those days where everything goes wrong, you’ll relate to Victor Meldrew. Richard Wilson’s grumpy pensioner in One Foot in the Grave turned complaining into an art form. Whether he was battling dodgy delivery men, malfunctioning technology, or just bad luck, Victor’s rants were pure comedy gold.
8. Patricia Routledge as Hyacinth Bucket
It’s "Bouquet," dear, not "Bucket"! Keeping Up Appearances gave us one of the funniest social climbers in TV history. Hyacinth Bucket, played by Patricia Routledge, is obsessed with appearing posh—even though everything around her constantly falls into chaos. Whether she’s bossing around her long-suffering husband or trying to impress the neighbors, her delusions of grandeur make her an unforgettable comedy queen.
9. Steve Pemberton as Pauline
Few characters combine menace and mirth quite like Pauline from The League of Gentlemen. Played by Steve Pemberton, this terrifying Job Centre worker is known for her strict rules, love of pens, and complete lack of patience. Equal parts hilarious and horrifying, Pauline is a character you wouldn’t want to meet in real life—but you can’t stop watching her on screen.
10. Warren Mitchell as Alf Garnett
Alf Garnett, the grumpy old bigot from Till Death Us Do Part, was a character who could make you laugh and gasp at the same time. Played by Warren Mitchell, Alf’s rants about everything from politics to football were both outrageous and oddly entertaining. Despite his outdated views, the comedy came from the fact that he was often the butt of the joke rather than the hero of it.
Conclusion
And there you have it—the top ten titans of TV comedy! These legendary laugh-makers have brought joy to millions, creating characters that remain timeless. Whether it’s Basil’s breakdowns, Fletch’s schemes, or Partridge’s painful awkwardness, these icons prove that comedy truly is an art form.
Who’s your favourite? Let us know in the comments below!
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