There’s something wonderfully gratifying about seeing a comedian shed the one-liners and move into a role that has you sobbing. It’s the same excitement as seeing the class clown win first prize at the science fair—unexpected, but rewarding.
Hollywood is all about these “wait, what?!” moments, where comedians best known for making us laugh switch slapstick for earnestness and completely own it. And when it pays off, it makes us realize how much range they possess. Here’s a reverse-order countdown of 10 of the biggest surprises—and accomplishments—by comedians-turned-dramatists.
10. Will Ferrell – From Anchorman to Stranger Than Fiction
We know him as Ron Burgundy and Buddy the Elf, but in Stranger Than Fiction, Will Ferrell took a quieter, more heartfelt route. Inspired by comedy legends like Jack Lemmon and Tom Hanks—both of whom transitioned successfully into drama—Ferrell embraced the challenge and proved he could tug at the heartstrings just as easily as he could deliver a punchline.
9. Jim Carrey – From Ace Ventura to Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
The rubber-faced, over-the-top wizard of The Mask and Ace Ventura evolved into a sensitive, subtle turn in Eternal Sunshine. Carrey has referred to his dramatic work as his “kids,” but this one spoke particularly close to home—embalming the universal pain of lost love and memory.
8. Bill Murray – From Ghostbusters to Lost in Translation
Bill Murray’s deadpan humor made him a comedy legend, but Lost in Translation showcased a deeply introspective, almost vulnerable side. Though he’s said he enjoys comedy, this softer, more melancholic role earned him critical acclaim and a whole new generation of fans.
7. Kevin Hart – From Stand-Up to True Story and Fatherhood
Kevin Hart’s career was founded on quick-fire humor, but appearances in True Story, The Upside, and Fatherhood demonstrated he’s capable of much more than that. Hart has indicated that he’s acclimating audiences to his dramatic performances—what he refers to as “slow walking” them into viewing the whole gamut of his talent.
6. Whoopi Goldberg – From Comedy Stage to The Color Purple
Before she was an EGOT legend, Whoopi Goldberg was illuminating stages in her one-woman comedy routine. But after reading The Color Purple, everything changed. Steven Spielberg was so impressed by her work on stage that he cast her as Celie straight away—a turn for which she was Oscar-nominated.
5. Robin Williams – From Mork & Mindy to Good Will Hunting
Recognized for his whirlwind pace, Robin Williams established a reputation for rapid-fire humor and large laughs. But in movies such as Good Will Hunting and Dead Poets Society, he introduced a sensitivity and weight that lingered long after the credits rolled. Williams himself once acknowledged that serious dramas helped break people out of the mold they had put him in.
4. Adam Sandler – From Happy Gilmore to Uncut Gems
Loud, goofy, and frequently over-the-top—Adam Sandler’s brand of comedy did not warn audiences for the ferocity of Uncut Gems. Reluctantly on board, Sandler accepted the role on the urging of his wife Jackie, delivering a performance which surprised both viewers and critics alike.
3. Steve Carell – From The Office to Foxcatcher
To most, Steve Carell will forever be Michael Scott. But his chilling, unsettling performance as John du Pont in Foxcatcher dispelled any questions about his range as a dramatic actor. Carell admits he doesn’t separate comedy and drama sharply—he tackles them both with the same intention: truth.
2. Tom Hanks – Comedy’s Smoothest Leap into Drama
From sitcoms such as Bosom Buddies and comedies such as Splash and Big, Tom Hanks delighted the world with his friendly, everyman image. But in the ’90s, his career turned dramatically with Philadelphia and Forrest Gump—both of which brought him Oscar wins. Hanks has been dubbed “America’s Dad” and says that his early work in theater taught him to excel in any genre.
1. Mo’Nique – From Stand-Up to an Oscar in Precious
Mo’Nique made her reputation in comedy and television, but playing Mary Jones in Precious, she gave an unhinged, unflinching performance. She said the role was emotionally tough because she’s habitually attracted to humor, but it paid off—winning her an Academy Award and the admiration of global audiences.
So next time you spot your favorite comedian in a dramatic part, don’t be surprised if they leave you at a loss for words. Some of the most talented actors are those who can make you laugh until your belly aches… and then only a few minutes later, break your heart.