Bruce Vilanch

You can thank Bruce Vilanch for the best jokes at the Academy Awards. The comedian has been writing for the star-studded event for over 25 years, and has been the head writer since 2000. Everything you see on telecast goes under his scrutiny. His comedy credentials don't stop there: Vilanch has written jokes for Bette Midler, Elizabeth Taylor, Lily Tomlin, and The Brady Bunch. As if this ensemble doesn't firmly secure his place as a gay icon, Vilanch has been openly gay and eccentrically dressed on the red carpet for years. Out follows the comedy king's many public appearances.