Published on January 28, 2021
Last Updated on November 5, 2025
Introduction: When Laughter Meets Cannabis Culture
The combination of comedy and cannabis is a tale as old as time—or at least as old as the cultural zeitgeist that brought them together. Many argue that humor and weed naturally complement each other, both serving as powerful tools for relaxation, creativity, and boundary-pushing. From the underground stoner comics of yesteryear to today’s mainstream comedy icons, the link between humor and cannabis is undeniable. As we explore the lives of 11 comedy legends who enjoyed a good smoke, expect a journey filled with nostalgia, history, and cultural insight. Let’s dive into how these figures have shaped both the worlds of comedy and cannabis.
The Classic Trailblazers Who Lit the Way
Any discussion about cannabis and comedy must begin with Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, the duo that practically invented stoner comedy. Through their films and albums, Cheech & Chong became pioneers of both stoner humor and counterculture comedy in the ’70s. Their legacy? Normalizing weed culture and opening the doors for future cannabis comedians. And did you know? Their impact extends beyond entertainment, with modern collaborations and even their own cannabis branding, much like the modern techniques used to make a water bottle bong at home or other creative consumption methods.
The Free Spirits of Stand-Up: Weed as a Creative Muse
George Carlin and Richard Pryor are two names that leap to mind when considering how cannabis has influenced stand-up comedy. Carlin’s sharp wit and insightful social commentary were often enhanced by his cannabis use, offering a unique perspective on society and language. Similarly, Richard Pryor’s raw honesty, humor, and occasional pain were tied to his relationship with weed. In the realm of stand-up, cannabis has often served as a tool for creative risk-taking and truth-telling, a way to slip into altered states of consciousness that fuel social commentary—much like how users experience effects when they smoke a bowl or explore the art of rolling a joint.
The Saturday Night Highs: Cannabis on Late-Night Stages
Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd, two legends of “Saturday Night Live,” embody the playful spirit of cannabis-infused comedy. Murray’s “stoner mystique” and offbeat charm have captivated audiences for decades. Meanwhile, Aykroyd’s sketches often hinted at spiritual and psychedelic influences, reflecting a broader cultural shift from taboo cannabis use to a behind-the-scenes norm. The improvisational comedy scene of the ’70s and ’80s owes much to these cannabis-friendly performers, whose influence persists in discussions about THC-O versus Delta-9 and the evolving perception of cannabis-enhanced creativity.
From stand-up stages to Hollywood sets, many of the greatest comedy legends have turned to cannabis — not just for laughs, but for inspiration, creativity, and relaxation. Here are 11 comedy icons who have openly embraced the green side of life.
1. George Carlin
The godfather of counterculture comedy, Carlin was a lifelong advocate for marijuana. He credited weed for helping him think outside the box — and it definitely showed in his sharp, thought-provoking routines.
2. Cheech Marin & Tommy Chong
The ultimate stoner duo! Cheech & Chong built their entire comedy empire on weed culture. Their movies like Up in Smoke made cannabis humor a mainstream phenomenon.
3. Dave Chappelle
Chappelle has been candid about his love for weed. Whether it’s in Half Baked or his stand-up specials, cannabis often sneaks into his jokes — making him one of the most relatable weed-loving comedians ever.
4. Seth Rogen
It’s impossible to talk about weed and comedy without Seth Rogen. From Pineapple Express to Superbad, Rogen isn’t just a cannabis enthusiast — he’s turned it into an art form (and even co-founded a weed brand, Houseplant).
5. Bill Hicks
The late, great Bill Hicks often spoke about consciousness and perception — and weed played a role in that. He believed marijuana could expand minds and help people see beyond societal illusions.
6. Sarah Silverman
Silverman has openly talked about smoking weed for anxiety relief and creativity. She even once brought a vape pen to the Emmys red carpet — iconic behavior.
7. Robin Williams
The beloved comedy genius admitted to experimenting with weed during his early years. His quick wit and manic energy seemed to draw from a mind that was always exploring new ideas.
8. Doug Benson
Doug Benson built an entire career around weed humor. From Super High Me to his Getting Doug With High podcast, he’s a true cannabis comedy ambassador.
9. Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi has not only spoken about using weed for glaucoma relief but also launched her own cannabis wellness line. A legend who’s used humor and honesty to destigmatize cannabis.
10. Bill Maher
Maher has long been a vocal advocate for marijuana legalization. He even lights up on Real Time with Bill Maher — proving that you can mix politics and pot successfully.
11. Jim Belushi
The Saturday Night Live alum now owns a cannabis farm, “Belushi’s Farm,” in Oregon. He calls it a tribute to his late brother John and a celebration of the healing side of cannabis.
Introduction: When Laughter Meets Cannabis Culture
The combination of comedy and cannabis is a tale as old as time—or at least as old as the cultural zeitgeist that brought them together. Many argue that humor and weed naturally complement each other, both serving as powerful tools for relaxation, creativity, and boundary-pushing. From the underground stoner comics of yesteryear to today’s mainstream comedy icons, the link between humor and cannabis is undeniable. As we explore the lives of 11 comedy legends who enjoyed a good smoke, expect a journey filled with nostalgia, history, and cultural insight. Let’s dive into how these figures have shaped both the worlds of comedy and cannabis.
The Classic Trailblazers Who Lit the Way
Any discussion about cannabis and comedy must begin with Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, the duo that practically invented stoner comedy. Through their films and albums, Cheech & Chong became pioneers of both stoner humor and counterculture comedy in the ’70s. Their legacy? Normalizing weed culture and opening the doors for future cannabis comedians. And did you know? Their impact extends beyond entertainment, with modern collaborations and even their own cannabis branding, much like the modern techniques used to make a water bottle bong at home or other creative consumption methods.
The Free Spirits of Stand-Up: Weed as a Creative Muse
George Carlin and Richard Pryor are two names that leap to mind when considering how cannabis has influenced stand-up comedy. Carlin’s sharp wit and insightful social commentary were often enhanced by his cannabis use, offering a unique perspective on society and language. Similarly, Richard Pryor’s raw honesty, humor, and occasional pain were tied to his relationship with weed. In the realm of stand-up, cannabis has often served as a tool for creative risk-taking and truth-telling, a way to slip into altered states of consciousness that fuel social commentary—much like how users experience effects when they smoke a bowl or explore the art of rolling a joint.
The Saturday Night Highs: Cannabis on Late-Night Stages
Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd, two legends of “Saturday Night Live,” embody the playful spirit of cannabis-infused comedy. Murray’s “stoner mystique” and offbeat charm have captivated audiences for decades. Meanwhile, Aykroyd’s sketches often hinted at spiritual and psychedelic influences, reflecting a broader cultural shift from taboo cannabis use to a behind-the-scenes norm. The improvisational comedy scene of the ’70s and ’80s owes much to these cannabis-friendly performers, whose influence persists in discussions about THC-O versus Delta-9 and the evolving perception of cannabis-enhanced creativity.
Introduction: When Laughter Meets Cannabis Culture
The combination of comedy and cannabis is a tale as old as time—or at least as old as the cultural zeitgeist that brought them together. Many argue that humor and weed naturally complement each other, both serving as powerful tools for relaxation, creativity, and boundary-pushing. From the underground stoner comics of yesteryear to today’s mainstream comedy icons, the link between humor and cannabis is undeniable. As we explore the lives of 11 comedy legends who enjoyed a good smoke, expect a journey filled with nostalgia, history, and cultural insight. Let’s dive into how these figures have shaped both the worlds of comedy and cannabis.
The Classic Trailblazers Who Lit the Way
Any discussion about cannabis and comedy must begin with Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong, the duo that practically invented stoner comedy. Through their films and albums, Cheech & Chong became pioneers of both stoner humor and counterculture comedy in the ’70s. Their legacy? Normalizing weed culture and opening the doors for future cannabis comedians. And did you know? Their impact extends beyond entertainment, with modern collaborations and even their own cannabis branding, much like the modern techniques used to make a water bottle bong at home or other creative consumption methods.
The Free Spirits of Stand-Up: Weed as a Creative Muse
George Carlin and Richard Pryor are two names that leap to mind when considering how cannabis has influenced stand-up comedy. Carlin’s sharp wit and insightful social commentary were often enhanced by his cannabis use, offering a unique perspective on society and language. Similarly, Richard Pryor’s raw honesty, humor, and occasional pain were tied to his relationship with weed. In the realm of stand-up, cannabis has often served as a tool for creative risk-taking and truth-telling, a way to slip into altered states of consciousness that fuel social commentary—much like how users experience effects when they smoke a bowl or explore the art of rolling a joint.
The Saturday Night Highs: Cannabis on Late-Night Stages
Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd, two legends of “Saturday Night Live,” embody the playful spirit of cannabis-infused comedy. Murray’s “stoner mystique” and offbeat charm have captivated audiences for decades. Meanwhile, Aykroyd’s sketches often hinted at spiritual and psychedelic influences, reflecting a broader cultural shift from taboo cannabis use to a behind-the-scenes norm. The improvisational comedy scene of the ’70s and ’80s owes much to these cannabis-friendly performers, whose influence persists in discussions about THC-O versus Delta-9 and the evolving perception of cannabis-enhanced creativity.
