Chris Rock was by far my favorite comedian for most of my life. He seems too rich now to relate to his audience though. I haven't really found anyone new who I would consider "the best", but I've enjoyed most of Nate Bargatze's stuff.
this question will definitely have a huge debate on it, but the GOAT is dead: George Carlin
He was more of a stand-up philosopher than comedian.
Honorable mention to Bill Hicks.
He was the best. He still is, but he was, too.
It's a pity Carlin is dead. He could have run with Stewart as Veep.
Got the chance to see him a year or so before his passing.
He was still on fire. Killer set right until the end. There will never be another of his like again I fear.
I don't follow standup as closely as I used to, so I wouldn't hazard an opinion about the best. But I know that I always make a point to watch a Kyle Kinane set when I see one.
Kyle Kinane is excellent!
My favorite living comedian is Patton Oswalt.
My favorite up and coming comedian is Stavros Halkias.
For the living, I’m going to throw in Gary Gulman. His structure is unbelievable.
Brian Regan
Shane Gillis
As amazing as past comedians such as George Carlin were, Jon Stewart remains on the air today and I think that gives him the edge:-).
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