From scene-stealing sidekicks to unsung comedic geniuses, these underrated sitcom stars deserve their own spotlight, just like Kevin Sussman.
It’s quite often when a certain character in a TV or movie steals the show despite limited screen time, leaving the audience craving for more of them. These characters are often categorized as the best friend, oddball coworker, or even an eccentric neighbour, and they are the ones to land most unexpected laughs. One such intriguing character has been Kevin Sussman’s Stuart Bloom from the sitcom The Big Bang Theory, and his rise from recurring character to leading his own spinoff.
Many sitcoms are filled with such scene-stealing characters who deserve more recognition, and maybe even their own show. Here is a look at the top 10 most underrated sitcom actors who, like Sussman, have what it takes to lead a spinoff and really hog the spotlight.
10. David Hyde Pierce as Niles Crane from Frasier
Playing Niles Crane, Frasier’s younger brother, David Hyde Pierce delivered a masterclass in comedic timing as the refined, anxious psychiatrist with a not-so-secret crush on Daphne. And as Fraiser followed upon his story from Cheers, a new spinoff could have done the same for Niles, a character who delivered countless laughs from his neurotic quirks, emotional vulnerability, or even the sibling rivalry with Fraiser.
However, despite everything, his character often took a backseat to Kelsey Grammer in the spotlight, something which could have been resolved through his own spinoff. Potentially focusing on his post-Fraiser life, running a private practice, raising a family with Daphne, or even dabbling in therapy podcasts, would be a witty, thoughtful, witty continuation fans would eagerly watch. Pierce’s dramatic and comedic range could easily anchor a sitcom blending dry humor with poignant insight.
9. J. B. Smoove as Leon Black from Curb Your Enthusiasm
Blunt, street-smart, and completely unfiltered J. B. Smoove was a chaotic addition to the already chaotic world of Larry David in Curb Your Enthusiasm. And it was the same personality traits that made him a fan favorite. However, what many viewers don’t realise is that Leon is more than funny.
His distinct perspective often clashes with Larry. His impeccable comedic timing and his shape skills make him a perfect contender to further expand the world Larry David established. Smoove’s spinoff would feature Leon in his own hustle and bustle of Hollywood or even giving unexpected life advice. And with the actor at the center of it all, every episode would surely be a fun exciting ride.
8. Ben Schwartz as Jean Ralphio from Parks and Recreation
Parks and Recreation has given TV several of its iconic characters like Leslie Knope, Ron Swanson, April Ludgate, and Andy Dwyer. However, when it comes to one of the most underrated performers in the show, Ben Schwartz emerges among the top names. Schwartz played the role of obnoxious Jean Ralphio. And though limited, he still made the most of his appearances.
Despite his outrageous behavior and tendencies, his misguided confidence, bizarre musical interjections, and total lack of awareness made him a fan favorite. And a spinoff could further explore his misadventures and his twin sister, and his enabling father joining him in a much-needed spinoff.
7. Danny Pudi as Abed Nadir from Community
Danny Pudi brought an unexpected heart and originality to his character and the sitcom itself. However, despite being one of the best characters in the sitcom, Pudi remains an underrated performer in the industry.
And if anyone from this sitcom deserves a spinoff, it’s none other than Danny Pudi’s Abed Nadir. A potential sitcom can further explore his journey into the world of films and television, which always fascinated him, with Pudi’s subtle and nuanced performance finally taking the center stage and giving his character and talent more time to breathe.
6. Ken Jenkins as Bob Kelso from Scrubs
Among the ensemble cast of Scrubs, Ken Jenkins stood out in his performance as Bob Kelso, the cynical and often cruel chief of medicine. The character grew significantly over the course of the show’s run, and Jenkins’s dry wit, combined with his occasional displays of compassion, resulted in a character who was unlikable yet endearing.
However, despite his incredible performance in the show, Jenkins never got the same spotlight as Zach Braff or John C. McGinley. A Kelso spinoff would be a perfect opportunity to give Jenkins the limelight. The spinoff could explore his post-retirement life, whether returning as a hospital consultant, mentoring young doctors, or navigating senior life with the same biting humor.
5. Eden Sher as Sue Heck from The Middle
Eden Sher deserved a spinoff for her character, Sue Heck, from The Middle. And the actress almost got one before the plans were canceled altogether. However, her performance as the relentlessly optimistic and socially awkward middle child in the Heck family, Sue, turned out to be a notable and surprisingly relatable figure.
Sher also earned critical acclaim for her performance and even a spinoff, Sue in the City, which never saw the light of day (Deadline). And it’s been a missed opportunity for fans to enjoy Sher’s charm and follow Sue’s further journey to find a career, love, and confidence in a cynical world.
4. Craig Robinson as Darryl from The Office
Craig Robinson has delivered some of the best and most memorable characters in some of the best sitcoms of all time. Whether it’s The Office or Brooklyn Nine-Nine, his performances remain a stark reminder of his range and skills as an actor. And though having either of his spinoffs, whether as Doug Judi or Darryl, would be a treat for his fans, this segment will focus on the latter.
Robinson stood out with his laid-back presence in The Office, making his presence known subtly among the larger-than-life characters like Michael Scott and Dwight Schrute. And it would be finally intriguing to see Darryl claiming the spotlight he deserves in his own spinoff, possibly following his new life as the new V.P. of Athlete Relations at Athlead.
3. Jason Alexander as George Costanza from Seinfeld
Often also described as Ross’s counterpart in Seinfeld, Jason Alexander’s George Costanza continues to be one of the fan favorites from the sitcom. However, despite the name and acclaim he earned on the show, his post-Seinfeld career never got the boost it truly deserved. Jason Alexander is an impeccable performer, and despite the distinct features of his character, he did deserve his own moment in the spotlight.
A spinoff could depict George’s life after Seinfeld, possibly focusing on his failed career, ruined relationships, or even his attempts at self-improvement, all of which are doomed to fail hilariously. Alexander’s ability to transform absurdity into effortless concern, timing, and humor makes him a must-have for another lead role.
2. Ted McGinley as Jefferson Darcy from Married… with Children
Ted McGinley, best known for his role as Jefferson D’Arcy on Married… with Children, is a prime example of an underrated sitcom gem. As the charming, lazy, and hilariously self-absorbed second husband to Marcy, McGinley brought a unique blend of smooth-talking charisma and comedic timing that added a fresh dynamic to the show’s ensemble.
Despite joining the sitcom later in its run, he quickly became a fan favorite, effortlessly holding his own alongside the legendary Bundy clan. Often typecast as the ‘pretty boy,’ McGinley showed he could dig deeper, turning Jefferson into a surprisingly layered character with great comedic range. His knack for satire and deadpan delivery deserves far more credit, and a Jefferson-focused spinoff, perhaps following his schemes post-Marcy, could’ve delivered a clever, laugh-out-loud series. It’s time McGinley got the leading man recognition he’s long earned.
1. Tichina Arnold as Pam from Martin
Tichina Arnold’s Pam was sassy, outspoken, stylish, and extremely funny. Pam was a unique experience to watch as Gina’s best friend and a verbal sparring partner for Martin’s character; she contributed a different style of humor that balanced out the often male-centric comedy on Martin. She always grabbed attention with her timing, physicality, and striking presence.
Despite being a tremendous talent, Arnold never got the lead sitcom role she deserved during her time there. A spinoff centered on Pam, perhaps navigating the music industry, entrepreneurship, or life as a single woman in ’90s Detroit, would have been a cultural phenomenon. Even today, fans continue to appreciate Arnold’s portrayals on shows like The Neighborhood. And though Pam’s character and acting haven’t aged well, but deserve to be singled out.
