10 Supporting Sitcom Characters That Stole the Show

Article Overview

Supporting characters can often steal the show with their hilarious and wacky personalities, like Jeremy Jamm in

Parks and Recreation

and Creed Bratton in

The Office

Characters like Craig Feldspar in

Malcolm in the Middle

and Mike Hannigan in

Friends

bring light-hearted comedic relief and add depth to the show.

Dennis Duffy in

30 Rock

and Doug Judy in

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

contribute to the show's humor and have fascinating and complex backstories.

The best sitcoms are renowned for their talented ensemble casts, often overshadowing the main characters with their captivating supporting roles. Character development is crucial for any story, as it allows the audience to connect and find delight in the characters' growth over time. However, on occasion, a supporting character manages to steal the spotlight entirely.

Occasionally, a supporting character becomes even more captivating than the show's lead. With TV shows offering intricate and intriguing backstories for minor characters, it becomes challenging to distinguish between the supporting and main roles. This is particularly true for sitcoms, where ensemble casts inject humor and propel the storyline forward. Each character receives their own captivating storylines, some of which may be more fascinating than the main narrative.

10. Jeremy Jamm From Parks And Recreation

Played By Jon Glaser

Parks and Recreation

Release Date: April 9, 2009

Cast: Amy Poehler, Nick Offerman, Chris Pratt, Aubrey Plaza, Adam Scott, Rashida Jones, Retta, Jim O'Heir, Aziz Ansari, Rob Lowe

Genres: Sitcom, Comedy, Mockumentary

Seasons: 7

Jeremy Jamm, an orthodontist and city councilman in Pawnee, had an ongoing rivalry with Leslie Knope (played by Amy Poehler) in the TV show Parks and Recreation. Despite being portrayed as an antagonist, Jamm's interactions with Leslie and the rest of the Parks Department resulted in many hilarious moments throughout the series. He even engaged in a relationship with Ron's (represented by Nick Offerman) ex-wife Tammy, portrayed by Offerman's real-life spouse, Megan Mullally.

9. Creed Bratton From The Office

Jeremy Jamm gained a significant following to the extent that he was exclusively featured in a flashback during the conclusion of Parks and Recreation. This flashback showcased his transition into the role of a chef at a hibachi restaurant. Jamm's tense relationship with Leslie and intriguing professional background established him as a supporting character who often captivated the audience more than the main characters of the show.

Played By Creed Bratton

The Office

The Office, a comedy-drama sitcom, was released on March 24, 2005, and ran for a total of nine seasons. The cast included Mindy Kaling, Jenna Fischer, Kate Flannery, Ed Helms, Craig Robinson, Paul Lieberstein, Ellie Kemper, B.J. Novak, Angela Kinsey, Oscar Nunez, Rainn Wilson, Brian Baumgartner, Phyllis Smith, Leslie David Baker, Creed Bratton, Steve Carell, and John Krasinski.

One of the standout characters on The Office was Creed Bratton, portrayed by the actor of the same name. Bratton's character was inspired by his real-life persona and added a hilarious dynamic to the show. Despite being a fictional character, Creed's presence was often wacky and bewildering, as he seemed to have no grasp on reality. While he didn't have any major storylines, except for a brief period as the regional manager of Dunder Mifflin Scranton, Creed frequently made casual references to his involvement in criminal activities, drawing attention to himself with his absurd statements. This mysterious persona raised countless questions about his life, making him an intriguing figure among the other characters on The Office.

8. Craig Feldspar From Malcolm In The Middle

Played By David Anthony Higgins

Malcolm in the Middle

Release Date: January 9, 2000

Cast: Bryan Cranston, Frankie Muniz

Genres: Sitcom

Seasons: 7

Craig Feldspar, Lois' coworker in Malcolm in the Middle, had a complex infatuation with her that teetered between romantic admiration and the longing for maternal care. Despite his slightly unsettling demeanor, Craig managed to form a strong bond with the entire Wilkerson family as the series progressed. In fact, he even offered Reese the opportunity to live with him in the final episode of Malcolm in the Middle. With his light-hearted comedic presence, Craig brought additional depth to the show, often outshining the main characters.

7. Mike Hannigan From Friends

Played By Paul Rudd

Friends

Release Date September 22, 1994Cast Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, David SchwimmerGenres Comedy, Drama, SitcomSeasons 10

Mike Hannigan made his debut in Friends season 9 as a love interest for Phoebe (played by Lisa Kudrow). Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage in Friends season 10. Despite only appearing in the final two seasons of the show, Rudd's portrayal of Mike left a lasting impression. His comedic performance added an unexpected level of charm to the character. In the memorable Friends finale, Mike and Phoebe even discussed starting a family after meeting Monica (Courteney Cox) and Chandler's (Matthew Perry) twins.

6. Gayle From Bob's Burgers

Voiced By Megan Mullally

Bob's Burgers

Release Date January 9, 2011Cast H. Jon Benjamin, Dan Mintz, Eugene Mirman, Larry Murphy, John Roberts, Kristen SchaalGenres Animation, ComedyRating TV-14Seasons 13

5. Dennis Duffy From 30 Rock

Gayle made her debut in the first season of Bob's Burgers as Linda's eccentric yet timid sister. Her innocence often led her into precarious situations, leaving the Belcher family puzzled by her decision-making abilities and apparent disconnection from reality. Gayle's infatuation with her numerous feline companions provided a comedic backdrop for many entertaining storylines, transforming her on-screen presence into a comically absurd journey for the character. Despite the Belchers not always embracing her antics, Gayle managed to steal the show with her unique persona.

5. Dennis Duffy From 30 Rock

Played By Dean Winters

30 Rock, a comedic satire series, first aired on October 11, 2006. The show features a talented cast including Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan, Jane Krakowski, Jack McBrayer, Scott Adsit, Judah Friedlander, Katrina Bowden, Keith Powell, and Lonny Ross. With a TV-14 rating, the series spanned over 7 seasons.

Dennis Duffy, the on-and-off boyfriend of Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) in 30 Rock, was often known for his questionable behavior and simultaneous adoration for Liz. Despite their numerous breakups, Dennis remained steadfast in his belief that he and Liz would inevitably find their way back to each other. And sure enough, each time they reconciled, Dennis would bring with him a new escapade that landed him in trouble once again. Though initially portrayed as an antagonist, Dennis' comedic relief brought a unique element to the show 30 Rock. It was always captivating to discover what shenanigans the character had been involved in upon his return.

4. Doug Judy From Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Played By Craig Robinson

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Release Date: September 17, 2013

Cast: Stephanie Beatriz, Melissa Fumero, Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Joel McKinnon Miller, Dirk Blocker, Terry Crews, Chelsea Peretti, Joe Lo Truglio

Genres: Comedy, Crime

Rating: TV-14

Seasons: 8

Doug Judy, also known as the Pontiac Bandit, appeared in the popular sitcom Brooklyn Nine-Nine as the nemesis of Jake Peralta (played by Andy Samberg). However, their rivalry evolved into an unlikely friendship filled with humorous adventures. Throughout the show's seasons, Judy made regular appearances, always bringing new stories that entertained Jake and the audience. Eventually, he even became a valuable asset to the 99th Precinct, assisting them with their investigations and abandoning his life of crime. Although Doug Judy's farewell on Brooklyn Nine-Nine may have been lackluster, his time on the show was characterized by enjoyable and captivating narratives.

3. Jessica From Rick And Morty

Voiced By Kari Wahlgren

Rick and Morty

Release Date: December 2, 2013

Cast: Spencer Grammer, Justin Roiland, Kari Wahlgren, Chris Parnell, Sarah Chalke

Genres: Animation, Adventure, Comedy

Seasons: 6

In the world of Rick and Morty, Jessica, a love interest of Morty's (Harry Belden), has made numerous appearances throughout the series. Initially portrayed as a shallow high school student in season 1, Jessica gradually became aware of Morty's fascination with her and they grew closer. However, season 5 took Jessica's storyline in an unexpected direction. In the episode "Mort Dinner Rick Andre," Jessica spent countless generations trapped in stasis, observing life pass her by. This experience led her to believe that she had evolved into a time god, making her far more intriguing than her original portrayal, as well as many of the other supporting characters in Rick and Morty.

2. Leo From That '70s Show

Played By Tommy Chong

that 70s show

Release Date: August 23, 1998

Cast: Topher Grace, Mila Kunis, Ashton Kutcher, Mark Brazill, Laura Prepon, Wilmer Valderrama, Debra Jo Rupp, Kurtwood Smith

Genres: Comedy, Sitcom

Rating: TV-14

Seasons: 8

Leo, a beloved character in That '70s Show, brought laughter to the audience with his hilarious antics. He was always portrayed as a carefree individual who was rarely seen sober. Throughout the show, Leo's interactions with the main group resulted in fantastic physical comedy, brilliantly portrayed by Chong. Although absent during seasons 5 and 6 due to his imprisonment, Chong made a grand return in the final two seasons, reprising his role as Leo. He quickly became a fan-favorite, with his appearances always garnering attention and adding an extra layer of humor to the show.

1. Ranjit From How I Met Your Mother

Played By Marshall Manesh

How I Met Your Mother

Release Date: September 19, 2005

Cast: Josh Radnor, Jason Segel, Cobie Smulders, Neil Patrick Harris, Alyson Hannigan, Bob Saget

Genres: Comedy, Drama

Seasons: 9

Ranjit made his debut in the pilot episode of How I Met Your Mother and, despite his small role, he made several appearances throughout the show's nine seasons. This hilarious driver was known for his elaborate stories and had a fondness for the gang, always ready to lend a helping hand. Although not a main character, each time Ranjit appeared, he brought more depth to his backstory, making him feel like one of the gang.

Editor's P/S

1. In the realm of sitcoms, supporting characters often emerge as scene-stealers, captivating audiences with their unique personalities and memorable performances. Two such characters that stand out are Jeremy Jamm from Parks and Recreation and Creed Bratton from The Office. Jamm, an orthodontist and city councilman, brings hilarious moments to the show through his ongoing rivalry with Leslie Knope. His complex relationship with Ron's ex-wife Tammy adds another layer of humor to his character. Creed Bratton, on the other hand, is a quirky and enigmatic figure who adds a touch of absurdity to The Office. His offbeat demeanor and casual references to criminal activities make him an intriguing character, leaving viewers with countless questions about his mysterious past.

2. The supporting characters in sitcoms play a crucial role in enhancing the overall viewing experience. They provide light-hearted comedic relief, add depth to the storyline, and sometimes even outshine the lead characters. By delving into the intricate backstories of minor characters, sitcoms create a rich tapestry of interconnected narratives that captivate audiences. Characters like Jeremy Jamm and Creed Bratton exemplify the power of well-developed supporting characters, leaving an indelible mark on viewers' minds and solidifying their place in the pantheon of unforgettable sitcom characters.