Age: 41
Occupation: Comedian and actor
Previous TIME 100 appearances: 0
Big-boned funnymen from John Belushi to Chris Farley have always had a special place in Hollywood comedies, but Zach Galifianakis has put a new spin on the old role. The burly, bearded comedian has stolen the spotlight in raunchy comedy films like The Hangover and Due Date not by being the loudest character on screen but by being the oddest. His understated, often aloof portrayals serve as a sharp counterweight to the chaos and havoc taking place around him. A passionate advocate for marijuana reform, Galifianakis makes no secret of his love for the kind bud, even lighting up a (supposedly) faux joint during a memorable appearance on Real Time with Bill Maher.