1. Charlie Chaplin: Known as the "King of Comedy," Chaplin was a silent film actor, comedian, and filmmaker who rose to fame in the early 20th century. His iconic character "The Tramp" is beloved for his physical humor, slapstick comedy, and poignant storytelling.
2. Buster Keaton: Another silent film comedy icon, Keaton was renowned for his deadpan expression and acrobatic stunts. He performed dangerous and complex physical comedy routines without the use of stunt doubles.
3. Rowan Atkinson: Atkinson is best known for his portrayal of the eccentric and accident-prone character "Mr. Bean." He combines physical comedy, facial expressions, and impeccable timing to create humorous situations.
4. Jim Carrey: Carrey is known for his energetic, over-the-top performances and unique brand of physical comedy. He has starred in numerous successful comedies, including "Ace Ventura," "The Mask," and "Dumb and Dumber."
5. Eddie Murphy: Murphy rose to fame in the 1980s with his stand-up comedy specials and versatile acting skills. He is known for his impersonations, comedic timing, and unforgettable characters such as "Axel Foley" in the "Beverly Hills Cop" series and "Donkey" in the "Shrek" franchise.
6. Robin Williams: Williams was a beloved comedian, actor, and voice artist. He was known for his improvisational skills, rapid-fire delivery, and ability to connect with audiences of all ages.
7. Steve Martin: Martin is a veteran comedian, actor, and writer. He is known for his observational humor, wordplay, and deadpan delivery. His collaborations with John Candy and Martin Short have resulted in some of the most iconic comedy movies of all time.
8. Adam Sandler: Sandler has made a successful career out of comedic films that combine humor with sentimental moments and often revolve around family relationships. His movies are known for their relatability and universal appeal.
9. Will Ferrell: Ferrell is renowned for his larger-than-life comedic performances and impersonations. He is known for his quirky characters and ability to play clueless and over-the-top individuals.
10. Melissa McCarthy: McCarthy has become one of the most successful female comedians in Hollywood, known for her physical humor, strong female characters, and ability to find humor in everyday situations.
Ultimately, the "funniest actor ever" is a matter of personal opinion and can be debated endlessly. These actors have all left a lasting impact on the world of comedy and continue to be celebrated for their contributions.