“Laughter is the best medicine,” they say, and for Emma Stone, that medicine comes in the form of some of the most iconic comedic actors of our time. The Academy Award-winning actress, known for her impeccable comedic timing in hits like Superbad and The Favourite, has always been vocal about her admiration for the masters of mirth. In a recent interview, Stone dished out her take on the greatest comedic actors of all time, and her picks are as hilarious as they are unexpected. From the pioneers of physical comedy to the modern-day kings and queens of wit, Stone’s list is a love letter to the talented individuals who have made us laugh, cry, and laugh some more. So, who made the cut? Grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and get ready to LOL as we dive into Emma Stone’s ultimate list of the greatest comedic actors – the ones who have left an indelible mark on the world of comedy and our hearts.
What makes them timeless: The qualities that inspire Emma Stone

Despite becoming known for her expansion into the world of Greek Weird Wave cinema, Emma Stone established her roots within the realm of comedic acting, starring in cult classic films such as Superbad and Easy A as a teenager and gradually building on her work to become one of the biggest powerhouses in the film industry today.
From the romantic old Hollywood charm of La La Land to the bizarre absurdism of Poor Things and Kinds of Kindness, Stone has been on a journey of constant evolution from the beginning, showing that no task is too intimidating to conquer and dazzling everyone with her limitless talents and depth.
However, while she has been focusing her talents on absurdist cinema in recent years, perhaps a result of the creative freedom it offers her and through becoming the official muse of Yorgos Lanthimos, Stone still loves comedy and the comfort of the genre that sparked her career, describing the comedic actors who most inspired her.
Like many performers, Stone was struck by inspiration from a young age, leading her to pursue a career on the stage and imitate the careers of those she most admired.
Despite the fact that her career has spiralled into a new direction, collaborating with strange auteurs such as Lanthimos, Nathan Fielder and Ari Aster and overseeing new projects as a producer, there is still an element of humour that runs through these films, albeit just a darker and more twisted kind.
The Art of Subversive Comedy
Dark humor and nihilism: The tone of Stone’s recent projects
Films like Poor Things and Kinds of Kindness are very much defined by their nihilistic outlook, challenging audiences through portraying dark events in a blasé and light-hearted way, almost forcing us to laugh at something we know isn’t funny, whether it be someone slicing off their own thumb or casually hitting someone with a car.
Stone’s early roots in the comedic genre are prominent in all of her new projects, perhaps acting as more of a reflection on the times we live in now by turning tragedies into spectacles, mocking the nature of watching and the current phenomenon on social media in which we create entertainment out of complex and objectively wrong situations.
Turning tragedies into spectacles: A reflection of our times
Stone’s early roots in the comedic genre are prominent in all of her new projects, perhaps acting as more of a reflection on the times we live in now by turning tragedies into spectacles, mocking the nature of watching and the current phenomenon on social media in which we create entertainment out of complex and objectively wrong situations.
The impact of social media on comedy: Creating entertainment from complexity
Stone’s early roots in the comedic genre are prominent in all of her new projects, perhaps acting as more of a reflection on the times we live in now by turning tragedies into spectacles, mocking the nature of watching and the current phenomenon on social media in which we create entertainment out of complex and objectively wrong situations.
The Legacy of Comedy
Timeless storytelling: Creating stories that persist beyond eras
All of these comedians were symbolic of a specific era in the entertainment business, despite the fact that their work still resonates with people today.
Persuasively, Stone also carries into her work, aiming not to capture one moment in time but create stories that reflect persistent human struggles and moral dilemmas, and doing so through the art of subversive comedy.
Capturing human struggles and moral dilemmas through comedy
Persuasively, Stone also carries into her work, aiming not to capture one moment in time but create stories that reflect persistent human struggles and moral dilemmas, and doing so through the art of subversive comedy.
Emma Stone’s goal: Leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry
Stone would love to be that kind of an actor, Gene Wilder being a perfect example of this, and she hopes to leave a lasting impact on the entertainment industry through her work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Emma Stone’s take on the greatest comedic actors of all time has sparked a lively debate among comedy enthusiasts and film aficionados alike. The La La Land star’s eclectic list, featuring the likes of Peter Sellers, Chris Farley, and Diane Keaton, serves as a testament to the diverse and ever-evolving landscape of comedy. Through her choices, Stone not only pays homage to the pioneers of the genre but also acknowledges the trailblazers who continue to push the boundaries of humor.
The significance of Stone’s list extends beyond mere nostalgia or personal preference; it highlights the profound impact that comedic actors have on our collective psyche and cultural landscape. Comedians have the unique ability to tap into our collective anxieties, fears, and joys, providing a much-needed escape from the complexities of everyday life. As we look to the future, it’s essential to recognize the importance of nurturing and celebrating comedic talent, as they continue to shape our understanding of the world and our place within it.
As we reflect on Emma Stone’s picks, we’re reminded that comedy is an ever-changing beast, constantly adapting to the times and reflecting the society we live in. As we move forward, it’s crucial that we continue to celebrate the pioneers of the past while embracing the innovators of the present. In the words of the inimitable Chris Farley, “I live in a house with 17 bathrooms, and I still can’t find a decent place to take a dump.” May the comedic geniuses of the future continue to make us laugh, cry, and reflect on the absurdity of it all.