17 Comedians and How They Got Their Start

Comedy careers don’t always begin in the ways you'd expect. Many of today’s well-known comedians actually stumbled into their craft after trying something entirely different. From sports and politics to law and music, the early jobs of these funny people shaped their voices in surprising ways, often giving them the stories they needed to jumpstart their careers.

To celebrate the joys of comedy and the artists behind the jokes, 247 Tempo brings you this list of comedians who began their careers in very different places. We'll give you where these well-known comedians found themselves right before making it big, as well as the breaks that launched them into their comedic roles forever.

Research for this slideshow came from biographies, interviews, and reporting from sources such as The Hollywood Reporter, Rolling Stone, Biography.com, and Vanity Fair. Let's check out these celebrated comedians now.

Engineering was actually Atkinson’s first pursuit, and he studied it at Oxford, of all places. His talent for physical comedy couldn't be ignored, however, and his work in university productions led to the creation of Mr. Bean. Today, his career is celebrated for its universal, wordless humor.

Before acting, McCarthy actually performed in drag as 'Miss Y' in New York comedy clubs. She later trained at The Groundlings in Los Angeles, refining her improv skills. That experience propelled her into a career blending comedy and blockbuster film success.

Raised in Brooklyn, Chris Rock took on multiple minimum wage jobs at fast-food restaurants before comedy. His sharp takes on race and society got him noticed by Eddie Murphy, who helped him land his first film role. From there, his stand-up career skyrocketed, broadening into other roles in Hollywood and beyond.

Rivers initially struggled as an actress and worked a string of odd jobs. Eventually, her biting comedy found an audience in New York’s stand-up clubs, where honesty became her trademark. She went on to become one of the most influential female comics of all time, and her legacy is widely recognized today.

Before reaching 'The Office,' Carell worked as a mail carrier and pursued law studies. His dry wit eventually pulled him toward improv with Chicago’s Second City. That shift launched his stellar career, one filled with TV stardom and multiple acclaimed film roles.

Goldberg worked as a bricklayer and even a morgue beautician before acting. Her one-woman show on Broadway showcased her sharp humor and storytelling, putting her in the spotlight for other comedic roles. She later became one of the few EGOT winners, with comedy at the center of her career.

A licensed physician, Jeong practiced medicine before becoming a comedian. His comedic talent broke through after he won a casual stand-up competition while working as a doctor. Eventually, he left medicine behind for major acting roles like 'The Hangover.'

One of the funniest actors of our modern age, Carrey dropped out of school to support his family as a janitor. His uncanny impressions and energy eventually earned him a place in Toronto’s comedy clubs, with only a short time passing until he became one of Hollywood’s highest-paid comedic actors.

Comedy started as a side experiment for Ali Wong, until her fearless voice won her a Netflix special; before this, she was studying Asian American studies at UCLA and even pursued writing fellowships. Now, she’s one of the most recognized names in modern stand-up, earning voiceover roles and acclaim for her unique and outlandish comedic style.

Initially trained in radio broadcasting and working in warehouses to pay the bills, Bill Burr was discovered and never went back to his other careers. His no-nonsense humor resonated on Boston’s stand-up scene before expanding nationally. Today, his blunt observations make him one of comedy’s most respected voices.

Robin Williams always had acting in mind, attending Juilliard for drama. However, his quick improvisation made him a standout in ways that traditional theater wouldn't support, and he soon brought his unique energy to stand-up stages. That spontaneity carried through his iconic film and TV roles, and his comedic voice is dearly missed today.

A Harvard Lampoon writer, Conan O'Brien stepped into his entertainment career shortly after. Though writing for shows like 'The Simpsons' first defined his career, his quirky humor soon led to solo late-night hosting. Today, he’s considered one of TV’s most inventive comedians.

Life was far from easy for Haddish, who grew up in foster care. A social worker steered her into comedy classes as a way to channel her energy. From that start, she became a breakout star with stand-up specials and leading film roles; sometimes, all it takes is one person to believe in you.

An unforgettable comedian, Sandler was dubbed a class clown before pursuing acting at NYU. His stand-up gigs earned him a spot on 'Saturday Night Live', and his success there launched his storied career in both comedy and film.

After studying English at Cambridge, Oliver originally thought he’d teach. However, a random chance to perform stand-up at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival set him on a new path. He eventually landed on 'The Daily Show,' then built his own platform with 'Last Week Tonight.'

A comedian from another era, Ball worked as a model and chorus girl before her Hollywood stardom. Her comedic instincts emerged gradually, culminating in the groundbreaking sitcom 'I Love Lucy.' She went on to redefine television comedy for decades, widely remembered as one of Hollywood's largest female influencers.

Hart made his money selling shoes while performing amateur stand-up in Philadelphia clubs. Early on, he endured multiple failures before refining his style into the fast-talking persona fans know today. Now, his comedy and film career have made him one of the highest-earning comedians in the world.