43. FLIP WILSON
The first black stand-up comic to host his own variety show, Wilson boasted a diminutive stature and a larger-than-life persona. On The Flip Wilson Show — which also showcased a relative unknown named Richard Pryor — he assumed memorable alter egos like Reverend Leroy and Geraldine. Geraldine, who once square-danced with Johnny Cash, had a sassy comeback for every situation: ''The devil made me do it!'' and ''When you're hot, you're hot. When you're not, you're not.'' No matter which character he embodied, Flip was always smokin'.

Get This! The Best of the Flip Wilson Show