MADtv Cast List

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Updated April 1, 2024 30.3K views

For over a decade, MADtv reigned supreme in the realm of sketch comedy television thanks to its eclectic ensemble of comedians who delivered unforgettable performances. Lauded by longtime fans and newcomers alike, the show's impressive roster of talented comedians consistently delivered side-splitting laughs and top-notch comedy skits. A staple in late-night programming, MADtv became synonymous with pushing boundaries and capturing the zeitgeist of the times. 

The magic behind the show's success can be attributed to the MADtv cast members who brought their own distinctive flair to each episode. These performers created great characters that have become beloved among fans. From hilarious impressions to original creations that left viewers rolling on the floor with laughter, these individuals showcased their comedic prowess week after week while leaving a mark on television comedy history. 

Some of the standout MADtv cast members include Will Sasso, Michael McDonald, and Bobby Lee - just to name a few. Sasso enchanted viewers with his impeccable comedic timing across various roles, most notably when portraying accident-prone handyman Kenny Rogers. McDonald captivated audiences as fan-favorite character Stuart Larkin; his portrayal of this eccentric child sent sparks flying every time he appeared on screen. Lee solidified his place in MADtv's legacy with energetic performances as an array of quirky characters that consistently stole scenes from other sketches. The contributions made by these exceptional talents represent just a fraction of what made up the extraordinary cast of MADtv. 

Numerous outstanding comedians made their mark on this series, becoming synonymous with their characters that continue to delight fans even years after the final curtain call. The dedication and skill displayed by each cast member ensured that audiences were not only thoroughly entertained but also challenged to think about current events through satirical lenses.

  • Alex Borstein
    Family Guy, Power Rangers, Getting On
    Alexandrea Borstein (born February 15, 1971) is an American actress, writer, producer, and comedian. She is known for voicing Lois Griffin on the animated comedy series Family Guy (1999–present), for which she received a Primetime Emmy Award from multiple nominations. Borstein also had lead roles as various characters on the sketch comedy series MADtv (1997–2009), Dawn Forchette in the medical comedy series Getting On (2013–15), and Susie Myerson in the historical comedy-drama series The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017–present), the latter of which earned her a Primetime Emmy Award. She had supporting roles in numerous films, including The Lizzie McGuire Movie (2003), Catwoman (2004), Good Night, and Good Luck (2005), Dinner for Schmucks (2010), Ted (2012), ParaNorman (2012), and A Million Ways to Die in the West (2014). She spent her childhood in Deerfield, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago, before moving with her family to Northridge, California, a neighborhood of Los Angeles. She graduated from Chatsworth High School in 1989. Borstein is a graduate of San Francisco State University, where she studied rhetoric. She was trained in improvisational comedy at the ACME Comedy Theatre, near Hollywood, California, and was selected to join the cast of MADtv after being scouted by talent agents. Borstein was also a writer and voice actor for several television shows, including Casper, Pinky and the Brain, and Power Rangers Zeo, before joining the cast of MADtv in 1997 as a featured player, becoming a repertory player mid-season.
  • Andrew Bowen
    Mad TV, Breadwinners
    Andrew Bowen (born March 31, 1972) is an American actor known most for his appearances on the sketch comedy series MADtv.
  • Andy Daly
    Eastbound & Down, Mad TV, Review
    Andrew Daly (born April 15, 1971) is an American actor, comedian, and writer. He starred as Forrest MacNeil on the Comedy Central series Review, and had a supporting role in the HBO comedy series Eastbound & Down as Terrence Cutler. He has also made recurring appearances on television programs such as Silicon Valley, Modern Family, Black-ish, Trial & Error, the Netflix series The Who Was? Show, Reno 911!, and Comedy Bang! Bang! as well as animated shows such as Bob's Burgers and Adventure Time.
  • Aries Spears
    The Proud Family, Mad TV, C Bear and Jamal
    Aries Spears (born April 3, 1975) is an American stand-up comedian, actor and writer from New York City. Spears was a regular on Fox's sketch comedy series MADtv, appearing in 198 episodes, making him the second longest-serving cast member on the show behind Michael McDonald. In 2011, he released a special called Aries Spears: Hollywood, Look I'm Smiling.
  • Bobby Lee
    Mad TV, Big Time Rush, Animal Practice
    Robert Lee Jr. (born September 17, 1971) is an American stand-up comedian, actor and podcaster. From 2001 to 2009, Lee was a cast member on MADtv, and he co-starred in the ABC single-camera sitcom series Splitting Up Together alongside Jenna Fischer and Oliver Hudson between 2018 and 2019. Lee has also appeared in the films Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004), Pineapple Express (2008), and The Dictator (2012). He recently had a guest appearance as the cynical, burned-out Dr. Kang on FX on Hulu's TV comedy series Reservation Dogs.
  • Christina Moore
    That '70s Show, Jessie, Mad TV
    Christina Moore (born April 12, 1973) is an American actress, comedian, fashion designer, model, and screenwriter. She is most notable for her membership in the main cast of comedians on the sketch comedy series MADtv, for replacing Lisa Robin Kelly as Laurie Forman on That '70s Show during the sixth season, and for portraying Candy Sullivan on the TNT show Hawthorne. She had a recurring role in 90210.
  • Arden Myrin
    Working, On the Spot
    Arden VanAmringe Myrin (; born December 10, 1973) is an American actress and comedian. Myrin plays Regina Sinclair on the Netflix series Insatiable. She joined the cast of season seven of Showtime's Shameless, and appeared in the world premiere of Steve Martin's play Meteor Shower at the Long Wharf Theatre. Her television credits include Orange Is the New Black, Hung, Key & Peele, Inside Amy Schumer, W/ Bob & David, Psych, Bones, Fresh Off the Boat, Suburgatory, 2 Broke Girls, Reno 911!, and Gilmore Girls, among others. From 1997 to 1999, Arden played the regular role of Abby Cosgrove on Working, an NBC sitcom starring Fred Savage. Arden will be seen next in the feature film Extracurricular Activities. She makes a special guest appearance in Grey’s Anatomy season 14 episode 24 (All of Me) Myrin has appeared in many films, including the Sundance Films Bachelorette, and Wrong Cops and Wrong both made by Mr. Oizo, as well as Kinsey, Morning Glory, and others. Arden's theater credits include Robert O'Hara's Barbecue at The Public Theater in New York City, as well as the premiere of John Ross Bowie's play about The Ramones Four Chords and A Gun at the Bootleg Theater in Los Angeles. Arden was in the original New York City production of David Mamet's Boston Marriage at the Public Theater, and appeared in Hay Fever directed by Darko Tresnjak at the Westport Country Playhouse. As a comedian Arden tours across the country and co-hosts a comedy show Tinkle Twins at Meltdown Comics with Dana Gould. Arden appeared on Chelsea Lately over 100 times, and is a regular panelist on @midnight. She was cast member of Mad TV for the last four seasons along with Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele, Ike Barinholtz, and Bobby Lee. She has appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The Howard Stern Show, WTF with Marc Maron, and RuPaul's Drag Race. Arden is also the host of the Nerdist podcast Will You Accept This Rose? about The Bachelor/The Bachelorette franchise.
  • Debra Wilson
    Mad TV, The Mr. Potato Head Show
    Debra Renee Wilson (born April 26, 1962), also known as Debra Wilson Skelton or Debra Skelton, is an American actress and comedian. Wilson is known for being the longest-serving original cast member on the sketch comedy series Mad TV, having appeared for the show's first eight seasons. She has also done voice work for various productions including Avatar, American Dad!, Family Guy, Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil, The Proud Family, Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and The Boondocks.
  • Frank Caliendo
    Hot in Cleveland, Mad TV, Frank TV
    Frank Caliendo (born January 19, 1974) is an American comedian and impressionist, best known for his impersonations on the Fox Network television series MADtv, and as the in-house prognosticator for Fox NFL Sunday. Furthermore, he is a recurring guest on the Pardon My Take Podcast, presented by Barstool Sports. In 2007 and 2008, he performed his impersonations on his own show, Frank TV, which aired on TBS. He is known for his impressions and for his frequent appearances on The Bob & Tom Show. He has released six solo CDs. From 2009 to 2011 he had a show at the Monte Carlo Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.
  • Ike Barinholtz
    The Mindy Project, Eastbound & Down, Mad TV
    Isaac Barinholtz (born February 18, 1977) is an American comedian, actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. He is best known for his role as a cast member on the comedy series MADtv (2002–2007), Eastbound & Down (2012), and The Mindy Project (2012–2017). In film, he is known for his roles in Neighbors (2014) and its sequel, Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising (2016), Sisters (2015), Suicide Squad (2016), and Blockers (2018). He also co-wrote the comedy Central Intelligence (2016), and directed, wrote, produced, and starred in the comedy The Oath (2018).
  • Artie Lange
    The Norm Show, Howard Stern on Demand, Game Over
    Artie Lange, born on October 11, 1967, in Livingston, New Jersey, has etched his name into the pantheon of American comedy with a career spanning over three decades. Raised in Union Township, Lange's first foray into entertainment came via the stand-up comedy route. His raw talent and unique sense of humor, often centered around his own personal experiences, resonated with audiences - he quickly became a staple of the New York City comedy scene. However, it was his breakout role as an original cast member on the sketch comedy show MADtv, which premiered in 1995, that catapulted him to national recognition. As Lange's career progressed, he broadened his horizons beyond stand-up comedy and television. He co-wrote, produced, and starred in the film Dirty Work in 1998, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer. This foray into film opened up new doors for Lange, leading him to a position as a regular contributor on The Howard Stern Show from 2001 until 2009. His tenure on the show remains one of the defining periods of his career, solidifying his status as a powerhouse in radio broadcasting and furthering his influence in the realm of comedy. However, Lange's path has not been without its pitfalls. He has openly shared his struggles with substance abuse and mental health, incidents that have punctuated his career with both personal and legal challenges. Yet, through it all, Lange has maintained his commitment to his craft. He has authored several books, including the bestselling memoir Too Fat to Fish. Lange's biography is a testament to resilience and determination, painting a portrait of a man who, despite his struggles, has made significant contributions to the landscape of American comedy.
  • Jeffrey Hanson Richards (born October 21, 1974) is an American actor, stand-up comedian and impressionist. Richards has the distinction of being the first person ever to be a cast member on both Saturday Night Live (SNL) and its rival sketch show, MADtv. He is perhaps best known for his frequent SNL character "Drunk Girl".As a standup comedian, Richards has opened for the likes of Chris Kattan, Andrew Dice Clay, Rob Schneider, David Spade, Louie Anderson, and Andy Dick. He has appeared as a guest on Marc Maron's WTF podcast as well as on Aqua Teen Hunger Force and NBC's Late Night.
  • Jennette McCurdy
    iCarly, Sam & Cat
    Jennette McCurdy (born June 26, 1992) is an American actress, YouTuber, singer, director, and writer. She is known for playing Sam Puckett on the Nickelodeon sitcom iCarly and its spin-off series Sam & Cat. McCurdy has also appeared in a number of television series, including Victorious, Zoey 101, True Jackson VP, Malcolm in the Middle, and Lincoln Heights, and has also produced, written, and starred in her own online series titled What's Next for Sarah? From May 2015 to August 2016, she starred in the Netflix/Citytv drama series Between as Wiley Day.
  • Ben McKenzie
    The O.C., Southland, Gotham
    Benjamin McKenzie Schenkkan (born September 12, 1978), is an American actor, writer and director. He is known for his role as Jim Gordon and he portrayed Ryan Atwood in the television series The O.C. and Ben Sherman in Southland. He appeared in the films Junebug and 88 Minutes. His first starring role in a feature film was in the 2008 indie release Johnny Got His Gun. From 2014 to 2019, McKenzie starred as James Gordon in the television series Gotham, for which he also wrote and directed episodes.
  • Jordan Peele
    Key & Peele, Mad TV, Chocolate News
    Jordan Haworth Peele (born February 21, 1979) is an American actor, comedian, and filmmaker. He is best known for his film and television work in the comedy and horror genres.Peele's breakout role came in 2003 when he was hired as a cast member on the Fox sketch comedy series Mad TV, where he spent five seasons, leaving the show in 2008. In the following years, he and his frequent Mad TV collaborator, Keegan-Michael Key, created and starred in their own Comedy Central sketch comedy series Key & Peele (2012–2015). In 2014, they recurred together playing FBI agents in season one of FX's anthology series Fargo. He co-created the TBS comedy series The Last O.G. (2018–present) and the YouTube Premium comedy series Weird City (2019). He has also served as the host and producer of the CBS All Access revival of the anthology series The Twilight Zone (2019–present). Peele co-wrote, produced and starred in Keanu (2016) and has voice acted in Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie (2017) and Toy Story 4 (2019). His 2017 directorial debut, the horror film Get Out, was a critical and box office success. He received numerous accolades, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, along with nominations for Best Picture and Best Director. He received another Academy Award nomination for Best Picture for producing Spike Lee's BlacKkKlansman (2018). He directed, wrote and produced the acclaimed horror film Us (2019).
  • Keegan-Michael Key
    Key & Peele, Mad TV, Gary Unmarried
    Keegan-Michael Key (born March 22, 1971) is an American actor, comedian, producer and screenwriter. He co-created and co-starred alongside Jordan Peele in Comedy Central's sketch series Key & Peele (2012–2015) and co-starred in USA Network's Playing House (2014–2017). He spent six seasons as a cast member on Mad TV (2004–2009) and has made guest appearances on the U.S. version of Whose Line is it Anyway? on The CW. He also appeared alongside Peele in the first season of the FX series Fargo in 2014, and had a recurring role on Parks and Recreation from 2013 to 2015. He hosted the U.S. version of The Planet's Funniest Animals on Animal Planet (2005–2008), and has hosted Game On! on CBS since 2020.
  • Lisa Arch
    Mad TV, Crank Yankers, Clean House
    Lisa Arch (née Kushell; born November 23, 1971) is an American comedian and actress known for her roles in the 1997–98 season of the FOX Network comedy show, MADtv, as cohost of TBS's Dinner and a Movie from 2002 to 2005, and as the recurring character of Samantha Samuels on Disney Channel's Cory in the House. Arch has also been in movies, such as 2007's Evan Almighty.
  • Melissa Paull (born March 22, 1980) is an American actress and stand-up comic. Paull is most notable for her membership in the recurring cast of comedians on sketch comedy series MADtv.
  • Brian Austin Green
    Beverly Hills, 90210, Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles
    Brian Austin Green, known for his exceptional roles in popular television series, is a versatile actor and producer who has left an indelible mark on Hollywood. Born on July 15, 1973, in Los Angeles, California, Green's passion for acting emerged early, leading him to the prestigious Hamilton High School Academy of Music, where he honed his skills before venturing into professional acting. Green's breakthrough came when he landed the role of David Silver on the iconic TV show Beverly Hills, 90210. His portrayal of Silver, a character he played from 1990 to 2000, earned him widespread recognition and acclaim. This led to further opportunities, including starring roles in series like Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and Anger Management. Additionally, Green demonstrated his range as an actor with appearances in various genres, from drama to sci-fi to comedy. Beyond acting, Green explored his creativity by stepping behind the camera as a producer. Furthermore, he delved into music, releasing his album, One Stop Carnival, in 1996.
  • Michael McDonald
    Mad TV, Clone High, The Spooktacular New Adventures of Casper
    Michael James McDonald (born December 31, 1964) is an American actor, director, writer, and comedian. He is best known for starring in the sketch comedy show MADtv. McDonald joined the show during the fourth season (1998) and remained in the cast until the end of the thirteenth and penultimate season, having become the longest-tenured cast member. While on the show, he developed many memorable characters. He was a contributing writer and director on MADtv. McDonald also directed several episodes of the comedy-drama series Scrubs, on which he guest-starred 6 times. McDonald currently divides his time between writing, directing, and acting on various film and television projects, as well as performing live on stage across the country. Currently, McDonald is working on Nickelodeon's The Loud House as one of Clyde's fathers.
  • Bryan Callen
    Death Valley, Inside Schwartz, Fat Actress
    Bryan Christopher Callen (born January 26, 1967) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, writer and podcaster. He studied acting at the Beverly Hills Playhouse. Callen initiated his career as one of the original cast members on the sketch comedy series MADtv. Callen is co-host of the podcast The Fighter and the Kid, alongside Brendan Schaub.
  • Mila Kunis
    Family Guy, That '70s Show, Robot Chicken
    Mila Kunis, a renowned actress of Hollywood fame, was born in Chernivtsi, Ukraine. She and her family moved to Los Angeles when she was seven years old. The cultural shift provided a challenging backdrop for the young Mila who had no grasp of the English language upon arrival. However, her resilience shone through as she quickly adapted to her new surroundings. Kunis's acting career began at the tender age of nine when she enrolled in acting classes at Beverly Hills Studios. Her talent didn't go unnoticed for long. By fourteen, she landed a significant role on the popular sitcom "That '70s Show," playing Jackie Burkhart. This role catapulted Kunis into stardom and served as an essential stepping stone towards more prominent roles. Later in her career, Mila's versatility as an actress became evident with successful performances across various genres - from romantic comedies like "Friends With Benefits" to psychological thrillers such as "Black Swan." For her portrayal in Black Swan, Kunis earned nominations from major award bodies including Golden Globe Awards and Screen Actors Guild Awards. Beyond filmography and television appearances, Kunis has also lent her voice to Meg Griffin on the animated series "Family Guy", demonstrating yet another side of this multifaceted actor's abilities.
  • Mo Collins
    Mad TV, Life's a Bitch
    Maureen Ann Collins is an American actress and comedian, known professionally as Mo Collins. She is perhaps best known for being a member of the ensemble on FOX's sketch comedy series Mad TV. Collins became well known for several characters during her tenure on the show. She was a cast member from the 4th season (1998) through the 9th season (2004); she only appeared in fourteen episodes during season 9 due to contractual reasons. She returned to Mad TV in the 10th season for one episode, and again when she made an appearance on the 300th episode doing her popular character Lorraine Swanson. Her best known role following her departure from Mad TV was as morning talk show host Joan Callamezzo on the sitcom Parks and Recreation.
  • Catherine O'Hara
    SCTV Channel, Second City Television, Glenn Martin
    Catherine O'Hara, a highly revered figure in the Canadian film and television industry, boasts an illustrious career that spans over four decades. Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Ontario, O'Hara's narrative is one of immense talent, tenacity, and versatility. Her unique blend of comedic timing, dramatic flair, and enchanting screen presence has cemented her status as an entertainment powerhouse. O'Hara's acting journey kicked off with The Second City, a renowned improvisational theater troupe based in Toronto. It was here that she honed her distinct style of comedy and formed lifelong collaborations with future comedy legends like Eugene Levy and John Candy. It wasn't long before her talents were recognized by the creators of sketch comedy show SCTV, which catapulted her to stardom and earned her an Emmy Award. However, it was O'Hara's foray into film that truly broadened her appeal and showcased her range as an artist. She delivered memorable performances in films such as Home Alone, Beetlejuice, and Best in Show. The pinnacle of O'Hara's career arguably came with her portrayal of Moira Rose in the critically acclaimed series Schitt's Creek, for which she won an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. Throughout her career, O'Hara has deftly combined her knack for comedy with a profound ability to portray complex characters, making her one of the most celebrated artists of her generation.
  • Nelson Ascencio (born August 30, 1964) is a Cuban-American actor and comedian. Ascencio is most notable for his membership in the recurring cast of comedians on sketch comedy series MADtv and for playing Flavius in The Hunger Games film series.
  • Cedric the Entertainer
    The Proud Family, The Steve Harvey Show, The Soul Man
    Cedric the Entertainer, born as Cedric Antonio Kyles on April 24, 1964, in Jefferson City, Missouri, is a dynamic figure in the world of American comedy. With his charismatic stage presence and unique style, he has firmly established himself as a top-tier comedian, actor, and game show host. His journey towards stardom began with humble beginnings at Budweiser's national comedy competition in the late 1980s where he captured the audience with his humor and offbeat characters. Cedric's big break came when he joined the groundbreaking The Steve Harvey Show, which aired from 1996 to 2002, earning him multiple NAACP Image Awards for his role. He further catapulted to fame as one of the four comedians featured in Spike Lee's The Original Kings of Comedy, a film that captured the essence of the most significant comedy tour of its time. Beyond the comedy realm, Cedric has showcased his versatility in various acting roles across both television and film. Notably, he starred in the popular Barbershop movie series and provided the voice for characters in animated films like Madagascar and Charlotte's Web. His hosting prowess was displayed on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, where he enlivened the classic game show with his trademark wit. As a testament to his influence and contribution to entertainment, Cedric the Entertainer was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
  • Nicole Parker
    Mad TV, Ninja Turtles: The Next Mutation
    Nicole Frances Parker (born February 21, 1978) credited as Nicole Parker Redford, is an American actress, voice artist, comedian, theatre performer, writer, and singer. She is best known for her work on Fox's sketch comedy show Mad TV. In July 2009, she concluded her run as Elphaba in the Broadway production of Wicked, a role that she reprised on tour across North America. She has appeared in films such as Meet the Spartans (2008), Disaster Movie (2008), Funny People (2009), and Wonder Park (2019).
  • Nicole Sullivan
    The King of Queens, Kim Possible, The Penguins of Madagascar
    Nicole Julianne Sullivan (born April 21, 1970) is an American actress, voice artist and comedian. Sullivan is best known for her six seasons (1995–2001) on the sketch comedy series MADtv. She also played the role of Holly Shumpert for five seasons (2001–2005, 2007) on the CBS sitcom The King of Queens. She has played a recurring character, Jill Tracy, on Scrubs and voiced the heroic Mira Nova in Disney/Pixar's Buzz Lightyear of Star Command and the villainous Shego in Disney's Kim Possible. She had recurring voice roles on Family Guy and voiced "Franny Robinson" in Disney's Meet the Robinsons. From 2008 to 2009, Sullivan starred in and was the lead of her own Lifetime television series Rita Rocks. From 2008 to 2013, she voiced Marlene in The Penguins of Madagascar. Sullivan played Jules' (Courteney Cox) therapist, Lynn Mettler, on the comedy Cougar Town. She portrayed Lyla in the Disney Channel original movie Let It Shine in 2012. In 2013, she starred in the short-lived Nickelodeon sitcom Wendell and Vinnie as Wilma Basset.
  • Patrick F. "Pat" Kilbane (born November 5, 1969) is an American actor, comedian, and screenwriter best known for his three seasons as a cast member on MADtv (1997–2000), as well his memorable appearance in the 1996 "The Bizarro Jerry" episode of Seinfeld, in which he played Bizarro Kramer. Kilbane's first book The Brain Eater's Bible: Sound Advice for the Newly Reanimated Zombie, was released on March 18, 2011.
  • Phil LaMarr
    Futurama, Samurai Jack, Justice League Unlimited
    Phillip "Phil" LaMarr (born January 24, 1967) is an American actor, voice actor, comedian and impressionist. He was a featured cast member on the sketch comedy series Mad TV and has had an extensive voice acting career, with roles in animated series including Justice League, Justice League Unlimited, Futurama, Samurai Jack, Static Shock and Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends. He has also provided voice-work for video games, such as Metal Gear, Jak and Daxter, Darksiders, Final Fantasy, Infamous, Dead Island, Kingdom Hearts and Mortal Kombat.