- Groucho Marx (1890-1977): Groucho Marx was a prominent comedian, actor, writer, and producer. He was best known for his role in the Marx Brothers comedy team. In 1940, he starred in the films "Go West" and "The Marx Brothers Go Broadway."
- Bob Hope (1903-2003): Bob Hope was a legendary American comedian, actor, and entertainer. He was particularly famous for his radio and television specials, as well as his numerous USO tours to entertain troops during World War II. In 1940, he starred in the films "Rhythm on the River" and "The Road to Singapore."
- Jack Benny (1894-1974): Jack Benny was a renowned comedian, actor, writer, and radio personality. He was best known for his long-running radio show, "The Jack Benny Program." In 1940, he starred in the films "Love Thy Neighbor" and "Buck Benny Rides Again."
- Jimmy Durante (1893-1980): Jimmy Durante was a multifaceted entertainer known for his unique style of comedy, singing, and piano playing. He was popularly nicknamed "Schnozolla" due to his prominent nose. In 1940, he starred in the film "The Boys from Syracuse."
- Charlie Chaplin (1889-1977): Although primarily associated with the silent film era, Charlie Chaplin remained an influential comedian and filmmaker in the 1940s. In 1940, he released his film "The Great Dictator," a satirical comedy that criticized fascism.
- Mae West (1893-1980): Mae West was an iconic American actress, singer, and screenwriter known for her risqué humor and sultry persona. In 1940, she starred in the film "My Little Chickadee."
These are just a few examples of comedians who were prominent during the 1940s, a period marked by various social, political, and cultural changes.