The 25 Richest Female Comedians: Who’s Making Millions With Jokes, Style, and Star Power

Comedy may still be a male-dominated industry, but these powerhouse women have broken barriers — not just with punchlines, but with poise, presence, and serious paychecks.

While their male counterparts often steal the spotlight, these female comedians prove that humor, hustle, and high heels can go hand in hand. From red carpet slays to sitcom empires, they’ve earned recognition and remarkable net worths.

Here’s a look at the world’s richest female comedians — and how they’ve balanced laughter with luxury.

25. Leslie Jones – $7 Million: SNL Powerhouse With Bold Red Carpet Energy

Stand-up extraordinaire Leslie Jones has been part of the industry for many years but truly made a splash in 2013 when she joined the cast of Saturday Night Live.

Since then, the tall actress has been in many significant projects, including the all-female Ghostbusters reboot and the sequel, Coming 2 America, alongside Eddie Murphy. Standing tall at 6 feet (182.9 cm), Leslie Jones doesn’t hesitate to boost her commanding presence even further with high heels, proving that confidence and style go hand in hand.

Leslie Jones dazzles in a neon green ruched halter dress paired with sleek white ankle-strap stiletto heels at the People’s Choice Awards (Credit: Mega / WENN)

Jones has since left SNL but is still working in the comedic world. She has a stand-up special on Netflix, hosted the thrilling ABC game show Supermarket Sweep, and, in 2021, hosted the MTV Movie & TV Awards.

24. Sarah Silverman – $8 Million: Edgy Humor and Effortlessly Cool Footwear

Sarah Silverman is one of the most recognizable women in comedy. She’s been seen on The Sarah Silverman Program and several stand-up specials on Netflix and heard on the Disney movies Wreck-It Ralph and Ralph Breaks the Internet.

At the HBO event, Sarah Silverman embraced retro-chic style in a black pinafore mini dress layered over a sheer blouse, grounding the look with edgy black lace-up ankle boots (Credit: FayesVision / WENN)

Much of Silverman’s work touches on social issues, like religion and sexism, and she’s widely regarded as an outspoken woman. Her work has earned her several nominations and awards, and she currently hosts The Sarah Silverman Podcast.

In 2024, she started hosting “Stupid Pet Tricks,” a hilarious new show inspired by the iconic David Letterman segment.

23. Molly Shannon – $8 Million: Superstar Comedienne With Elegant Shoe Style

Molly Shannon is another comedian whose career took off thanks to Saturday Night Live. On the late-night sketch comedy show, she became known for her character Mary Katherine Gallagher, a role she later reprised in the hit movie Superstar.

Molly Shannon exudes elegance in a teal ruffled gown paired with shimmering silver pointed-toe pumps, adding a touch of glamour to her poised red carpet presence (Credit: Mega / WENN)

After leaving SNL, Shannon continued working in television and film and has returned to the famed set at Rockefeller Center to host the show and participate in various special episodes.

Molly Shannon is a fabulous new addition to the fourth season of Only Murders in the Building. She brings her comedic brilliance to the hit show in a recurring role as a television executive.

22. Samantha Bee – $8 Million: Political Wit Meets Understated Glam

Standing just 5 feet 4 inches (162.6 cm), petite powerhouse Samantha Bee has made a big impact on television, first as a sharp-witted correspondent on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, and later as the host of her own critically acclaimed series, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee.

Samantha Bee brings understated elegance to the red carpet in a draped black wrap dress, perfectly paired with sparkling pointed-toe pumps that add a touch of glamour to her polished look (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

Time magazine named Bee one of the 100 most influential people in the world. She is known for her outspoken criticism of politicians.

21. Ellie Kemper – $9 Million: Wholesome Charm With Playful Shoe Game

Ellie Kemper is a comedian who’s gained notoriety for her roles in popular television shows, including The Office and The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, the latter of which she played the titular role.

Ellie Kemper brightens the premiere in a red snakeskin-print midi dress, perfectly complemented by classic black pointed-toe pumps for a playful yet polished look (Credit: FayesVision / WENN)

The actress has also been nominated for various awards and featured in critically acclaimed movies, including Bridesmaids and 21 Jump Street.

She released her debut book, My Squirrel Days, in 2018. In 2023, she starred in the American romantic comedy film Happiness for Beginners.

20. Kate McKinnon – $9 Million: Emmy Winner and Red Carpet Minimalist

Kate McKinnon has been making audiences laugh since she began her comedy career on The Big Gay Sketch Show.

After ending her work on that show, she continued finding work as a comedic actress. Eventually, she found her home on the iconic sketch comedy show Saturday Night Live, where she performed from 2012 to 2022.

Kate McKinnon stuns at the Emmys in a sleek black satin gown with a deep V-neckline, paired with minimalist heels that complete her effortlessly sophisticated red carpet ensemble (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

McKinnon has dabbled in other areas of the entertainment industry, including voice acting and film. The SNL alum can also be seen in Verizon Wireless commercials. In 2023, she starred as guardian Barbie in the fantasy comedy film Barbie.

The comedian is known for her stellar celebrity impressions and is one of the few SNL stars to have won an Emmy for their work on the show.

19. Wanda Sykes – $10 Million: Smart Comedy With a Stylish Tux Twist

Unlike many comedians, petite powerhouse Wanda Sykes—standing just 5 feet 1 ½ inches (156.2 cm)—entered the entertainment industry as a second act.

Before writing and performing stand-up, she worked a government job. Still, dissatisfaction with the bureaucratic grind eventually led her to pursue comedy—a craft she had a knack for and would soon master with razor-sharp wit and fearless honesty.

Wanda Sykes exudes polished charm in a textured white tuxedo suit layered over a black shirt, finishing her Critics’ Choice Awards look with a bold, glamorous edge thanks to the sparkling ‘Treena’ slingback heels from Nina Shoes, adorned with triple ankle straps (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

Soon, her career took off, and the comedian was writing for shows like The Chris Rock Show. She’s also known for her work in various successful movies, such as Evan Almighty, and currently stars in the original series The Upshaws on Netflix.

18. Alex Borstein – $14 Million: Bold Fashion, Emmy Gold

Standing just 5 feet tall (152.4 cm), Alex Borstein has been a Hollywood staple for decades. Best known as the voice of Lois Griffin on Family Guy, she also earned two Emmys for her bold, scene-stealing role in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

Alex Borstein makes a bold red carpet statement in a chartreuse wrap gown cinched with a sculptural belt, finishing the look with burgundy platform sandals for a unique mix of vintage glamour and modern flair (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

17. Lily Tomlin – $20 Million: Comedy Legend in Timeless Looks

Many people know Lily Tomlin from the popular Netflix comedy Grace & Frankie, which she stars in alongside Jane Fonda. Still, the comedian began using her funny bone decades before streaming services existed.

Lily Tomlin keeps it classic in an all-black ensemble featuring a subtly patterned blazer and flowing trousers, pairing timeless elegance with understated sophistication for her appearance at The Paley Center for Media (Credit: Nicky Nelson / WENN)

She has made dozens of film appearances and made a name for herself on the sketch comedy show Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In. Tomlin is just one award away from EGOT status, though she has been nominated in all four categories.

16. Chelsea Peretti – $20 Million: Quirky Cool With Retro Shoe Flair

Chelsea Peretti is best known for her work on the police sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine, but her resume has many other credits. Jordan Peele’s wife has written for other popular television shows, like Saturday Night Live and Parks and Recreation.

Chelsea Peretti turns heads at the Sing 2 premiere in bold high-waisted cobalt trousers and a red crocheted sleeveless top, serving up playful retro flair with standout statement earrings (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

She also has a stand-up special on Netflix and has written for major publications like American Theatre Magazine and The Huffington Post. She voiced a character named Suki Lane in the animated movie Sing 2.

15. Kristen Wiig – $25 Million: Red Carpet Risk-Taker With Comedic Roots

Kristen Wiig is yet another Saturday Night Live alum. Her time on the show was marked by her performance of several recognizable characters, including Target Lady, Penelope, and Dooneese.

Kristen Wiig commands attention on the Oscars red carpet in a sculptural red Valentino gown with dramatic pleated ruffles, styled with opera-length black gloves and gold pointed-toe pumps for a daring high-fashion moment (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

Since leaving SNL, the actress has returned to host the show. Still, most of her time has been spent starring in successful movies, like the second and third installments of the Despicable Me series and Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, and playing the villain in Wonder Woman 1984.

Wiig is also an accomplished writer. Her script for Bridesmaids earned her an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.

14. Amy Poehler – $25 Million: Improv Queen With a Love for Mules

Amy Poehler is a former improv star who took her talents to Saturday Night Live, where she earned widespread recognition for her hilarious characters and hosted “Weekend Update” alongside Tina Fey and, later, Seth Meyers.

Amy Poehler keeps it cool and casual in a forest green coat layered over a neutral top and color-block joggers, finishing the look with eye-catching neon yellow sneakers that add a playful pop of energy (Credit: Mega / WENN)

After leaving SNL, she starred as Leslie Knope in NBC’s hit sitcom Parks and Recreation. While on both television shows, Poehler acted in several comedic movies like Blades of Glory and often collaborated with “Update” partner Fey for projects like Baby Mama and Mean Girls. Poehler also writes, directs, and produces film and television.

13. Mindy Kaling – $35 Million: Chic Storyteller With Show-Stopping Style

Mindy Kaling is a well-known comedian who rose to popularity thanks to her role as Kelly Kapoor on the American version of The Office. Kaling also worked as a staff writer for the sitcom and wrote several episodes herself.

Mindy Kaling stuns at the People’s Choice Awards in a black beaded gown with a plunging crystal-embellished neckline, exuding timeless elegance and subtle sparkle from head to toe (Credit: Mega / WENN)

After The Office, Kaling created, wrote, and starred in her television show, The Mindy Project, which lasted six seasons. The actress is now busy running two other television shows: Netflix’s Never Have I Ever and HBO’s The Sex Lives of College Girls.

12. Whitney Cummings – $35 Million: Fearless Funnywoman in Feminine Heels

Whitney Cummings is known for many titles, such as comedian, actress, and podcaster. The multi-hyphenate started in stand-up and soon began appearing on Chelsea Lately.

Whitney Cummings radiates whimsy and elegance in a silky horse-print dress with an asymmetric hem, paired with black bow-adorned open-toe heels that add a playful yet polished finish to her look (Credit: Mega / WENN)

Cummings created her sitcom, Whitney, which only aired on NBC for two seasons. Although that wasn’t commercially successful, her other show, 2 Broke Girls, was a hit and lasted six seasons before cancellation.

Whitney Cummings has released several stand-up specials over her career, with her latest special currently available for streaming on Netflix.

11. Chelsea Handler – $35 Million: Talk Show Rebel With Sleek Shoe Taste

The comedian and television host Chelsea Handler began working in television in the early 2000s. Not long after beginning, she was given her own E! Network program, The Chelsea Handler Show, a late-night sketch comedy show.

The show didn’t last long, but the network kept her aboard, and thus, Chelsea Lately was born. It is a late-night talk show that lasted for seven seasons. She also hosted Chelsea on Netflix from 2016 to 2017.

Chelsea Handler keeps it sleek and modern at the People’s Choice Awards in a striking black-and-white color-block midi dress, elevated by printed pointed-toe pumps that add a subtle touch of flair to her minimalist ensemble (Credit: Mega / WENN)

Handler is a best-selling author known for her works like Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea, which spawned the television show Are You There, Chelsea? Handler is also a successful producer and is known for being outspoken.

10. Kathy Griffin – $35 Million: Sharp Tongue and Edgy Red Carpet Looks

Kathy Griffin is well-known for much of her work, most notably her reality show Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List.

Kathy Griffin strikes a classic silhouette in a black A-line dress with bold white floral embroidery, completing the elegant ensemble with black peep-toe heels at the PEN America gala (Credit: Sheri Determan / WENN)

Griffin has filmed many stand-up comedy specials and written an autobiography called Official Book Club Selection. The successful comedian has also received two Emmy Awards and one Grammy.

9. Amy Schumer – $45 Million: Designer Heels and Stand-Up Realness

Stand-up comedian Amy Schumer began her comedic career in the early 2000s and gained widespread recognition after appearing on NBC’s competition show Last Comic Standing in 2007. Standing at 5′7″ (1.70 m), she often enhances her stature with designer heels from brands like Gianvito Rossi, Giuseppe Zanotti, Alexander Wang, and Prabal Gurung.

Schumer wears a US size 8 shoe and confidently embraces her body image, humorously stating in an interview, “I’m 160 lbs, and I can catch a d–k whenever I want”.

Chuck Schumer’s second cousin was eventually given her sketch comedy show, Inside Amy Schumer, and earned multiple awards for her work, including a Peabody Award.

Amy Schumer steps out in a sophisticated navy midi dress with sheer paneling at the neckline, pairing the look with minimalist black ankle-strap heels for a sleek and modern finish at the DGA Awards (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

Schumer’s stand-up work is very popular, and she has multiple specials available to stream on Netflix. Because of this, she was the first woman to make Forbes’ list of highest-earning comedians.

The high earner took to print to detail much of her life in her memoir The Girl with the Lower Back Tattoo, and she’s even been seen on Broadway.

8. Carol Burnett – $45 Million: Trailblazer in Comedy and Classic Glam

Carol Burnett is known for much of her work but is arguably best known for starring in her eponymous variety show, The Carol Burnett Show.

The American icon is known for being the first woman to host a comedic variety show, and she only gained more ground as her career continued.

Carol Burnett brings timeless elegance to the Golden Globe Awards in a black velvet ensemble paired with a sparkling embellished jacket, finished with classic pointed-toe heels for a refined and graceful red carpet appearance (Credit: WENN)

Burnett has many awards, including Peabodies, a Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, and the Carol Burnett Lifetime Achievement Award, named after the comedian.

7. Whoopi Goldberg – $60 Million: EGOT Icon With Fashion Statements to Match

Very few people have achieved the success of Whoopi Goldberg. Now, as a host of The View, Goldberg’s illustrious career is marked by her success in film and on stage. She’s one of 18 who earned EGOT status by winning at least one Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony.

Whoopi Goldberg makes a sparkling statement at the 74th Academy Awards in a feather-trimmed Moulin Rouge–inspired showgirl costume and glittering silver high heels on March 24, 2002 (Credit: HO / AMPAS)

Never one to follow the crowd, Whoopi Goldberg has turned red carpet footwear into a personal form of expression. At the 2018 Oscars, she stunned in a custom Christian Siriano gown paired with rugged hiker boots, making a bold case for comfort-meets-couture.

Her love of eccentric shoes doesn’t stop there. She once embraced a Wizard of Oz-inspired look complete with ruby-red platform pumps and striped socks, proving her whimsical taste knows no bounds.

With a jaw-dropping collection of hundreds of pairs — including glittery Dr. Martens and heels featuring doll heads in the soles — Whoopi’s fashion choices continue to entertain and inspire. Her style is as fearless as her comedy, and her shoes are always a talking point.

Whoopi Goldberg makes a dramatic entrance in a voluminous fuchsia moiré Christian Siriano gown with exaggerated puff sleeves, paired with a wide-brimmed black hat and round glasses for a bold, fashion-forward statement at the Accessories Council event (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

Her notable works include The Color Purple, Ghost, Sister Act, and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit.

6. Tina Fey – $75 Million: Writer, Star, and Gingham Power Suit Queen

One of the most prolific comedians, male or female, Tina Fey, has been making crowds laugh for decades.

After becoming Saturday Night Live’s first female head writer, she has been a force to be reckoned with, becoming a “Weekend Update” host and writing one of the most iconic films of the 21st century, Mean Girls.

Tina Fey brings a smart and stylish flair to the Tribeca Festival red carpet in a black-and-white gingham pantsuit paired with a crisp white top and matching sneakers, perfectly blending polished and playful (Credit: Mega / WENN)

Fey left SNL to star in and run a sitcom she created, 30 Rock, which was based on her experience as head writer at the sketch comedy show.

Elizabeth Stamatina “Tina” Fey has written other films and television shows and has earned multiple awards, including the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

5. Roseanne Barr – $80 Million: Sitcom Royalty With a Bold Style Past

Roseanne Barr is best known for her work on the hit ‘90s sitcom Roseanne. The show initially ran for nine seasons and was revived for another season 30 years after its premiere. The revival only lasted one season, though, due to the controversy Barr caused.

Roseanne Barr adds a splash of retro flair with a colorful granny-square crochet skirt, pairing it with a classic black top, longline hoodie, and sleek black ankle boots for a look that’s both cozy and statement-making (Credit: Nicky Nelson / WENN)

In 2023, Barr made a comeback comedy special, Cancel This!, exclusively released on Fox Nation.

4. Melissa McCarthy – $90 Million: Hollywood’s Funniest Fashionista

Melissa McCarthy is an incredibly successful comedic actress who has starred alongside many women on this list in various film and television projects.

Standing 5 feet 2 inches (157.5 cm) and wearing a US shoe size 7, she often enhances her red carpet presence with standout heels.

At the Identity Thief premiere, she stepped out in striking Yves Saint Laurent “Tribute” sandals, showcasing her signature blend of confidence, comfort, and style. After beginning her career in entertainment, the American actress landed a supporting role in the dramedy Gilmore Girls, and things took off from there.

Melissa McCarthy stuns in a voluminous navy ensemble with sheer layers and cropped pants, finishing the look with dark satin peep-toe heels and a bold red lip for a sophisticated touch at the 2021 InStyle Awards (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

McCarthy has been cast in multiple successful television shows and has earned acclaim for her work in film, including two Oscar nominations.

The Spy actress is best known for her comedic work but has also been successful in her dramatic work. She portrayed Ursula in the musical fantasy film The Little Mermaid alongside Halle Bailey.

3. Rosie O’Donnell – $120 Million: Media Mogul With Signature Style

Rosie O’Donnell has amassed a large body of work throughout her career. She’s hosted and co-hosted multiple talk shows, including The View, has done stand-up comedy and film, and is an accomplished writer.

Rosie O’Donnell adds flair to her signature style with a shimmering red jacquard coat, pairing it with relaxed navy trousers and unique split-toe sneakers at a Rosie’s Theater Kids event (Credit: Avalon / WENN)

The television personality has worked in the radio industry, moderated panels, and has long advocated for LGBT rights.

2. Julia Louis-Dreyfus – $250 Million: Sitcom Queen With Sleek Shoe Grace

Actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus is one of the most successful women on television. After acting for a few seasons on Saturday Night Live, the comedic actress gained notoriety as Elaine Benes in Seinfeld. She starred in The New Adventures of Old Christine, then HBO’s Veep.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus exudes timeless elegance in a slinky navy Vera Wang gown with a draped neckline, accessorized with a sparkling statement necklace and matching bracelet at the Academy Awards (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

Louis-Dreyfus is one of the winningest actors of all time and is tied with Cloris Leachman for the most Primetime Emmy Awards won by an actor. Six of her Emmys were won consecutively while she portrayed Selina Meyer on Veep.

1. Ellen DeGeneres – $500 Million: Talk Show Titan and Tailored Shoe Aficionado

Ellen DeGeneres has been a force in the entertainment world for decades. Beginning her career in stand-up comedy, DeGeneres soon transitioned to film and television, eventually starring in her own sitcom, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, from 2003 to 2022.

Ellen DeGeneres keeps it classic and cool at the Golden Globe Awards, donning a sparkling black tailored Celine suit paired with shiny black oxford shoes as she proudly holds her trophy (Credit: Adriana M. Barraza / WENN)

Portia de Rossi’s wife is also known for her voice performance of Dory in the hit Pixar films Finding Nemo and Finding Dory.

The comedian’s outstanding work in comedy has earned her several prestigious awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which was given to her by President Barack Obama during his time in office.

Stepping Out in Style: Female Comedians Who Rock High Heels

These talented comedians not only bring laughter to audiences worldwide but also make bold fashion statements with their choice of high heels. Let’s take a look at some of their most memorable footwear moments:

Amy Schumer’s Red Carpet Confidence in Designer Heels

• Event: Various red carpet appearances
• Outfit: Amy Schumer has been seen in a variety of stylish ensembles, often complemented by standout heels.
• Footwear: She has donned heels from designers like Alexander Wang, Giuseppe Zanotti, and Gianvito Rossi, enhancing her 5′7″ frame with elegance and confidence.
• Read more: Amy Schumer’s Best Heels: How She Enhances Her 5′7″ Height With Designer Footwear

Sarah Silverman’s Architectural Elegance at the SAG Awards

• Event: 2018 Screen Actors Guild Awards
• Outfit: Sarah embraced vintage glamour in a black Romona Keveza gown with a gold waist accent.
• Footwear: She completed her look with Nicholas Kirkwood “Zaha” sandals, featuring mesh and crossover straps, paying homage to architect Zaha Hadid.
• Read more: Sarah Silverman’s Unexpectedly Chic SAG Awards Look

Kristen Wiig’s Vibrant Shoe Statements

• Event: Tribeca Film Festival and other appearances
• Outfit: Kristen is known for her playful and stylish outfits that often feature bold patterns and colors.
• Footwear: She has been spotted in tropical-print Nicholas Kirkwood pumps and other eye-catching heels that showcase her unique fashion sense.
• Discover more: Kristen Wiig’s Shoe Size, Height, and the Heels That Elevate Her Style

Kathy Griffin’s Edgy Heels and Leather Fashion at Letterman

• Event: Appearance on the ‘Late Show with David Letterman’
• Outfit: Kathy Griffin turned heads in a stunning leather dress by Robert Rodriguez paired with chic gold heels.
• Footwear: She flaunted her feet in striking gold metallic high heels—likely Giuseppe Zanotti pumps—in her usual US shoe size 7, adding a bold, reflective edge to her outfit.
• Read more: Kathy Griffin’s Edgy Heels and Leather Fashion at Letterman

Amy Poehler’s Retro Chic in Saint Laurent Mules

• Event: 2024 CinemaCon Big Screen Achievement Awards
• Outfit: Amy Poehler radiated retro charm in a black-and-white shirt dress as she was honored with the Vanguard Award.
• Footwear: She completed her look with Saint Laurent Disco PVC Fishet Mules, adding a touch of vintage elegance to her ensemble.
• Read more: Amy Poehler: Her Favorite Heels to Add Height to Her 5’2″ Frame

These moments highlight how female comedians use fashion and footwear to express their unique personalities, both on and off the stage.