American Film Institute names Blazing Saddles funniest film

The American Film Institute has named Mel Brooks's 1974 Western satire "Blazing Saddles" the funniest film of all time, moving it to the top of its "100 Years...100 Laughs" list. The honorary change was announced in recognition of Brooks's 100th birthday, which was celebrated on Sunday, June 28, 2026. The film supplants Billy Wilder's "Some Like It Hot," which previously held the number one position on the list first unveiled in 2000.

AFI President and CEO Bob Gazzale stated that the institute was happy to correct a long-standing grievance from Brooks, who had frequently argued his film was funnier. Gazzale's statement included a tribute to the filmmaker, saying, "He's right! We're happy to right this wrong as Mel celebrates his centennial. It's good to be the king, and may he live to be a 2,000 year old man."

"Blazing Saddles" stars Cleavon Little as Bart, a Black railroad worker appointed sheriff of the town of Rock Ridge as part of a corrupt land scheme. The film features an ensemble cast including Gene Wilder, Madeline Kahn, and Harvey Korman. Known for its anarchic, fourth-wall-breaking humor, the movie is celebrated as a landmark satire of American racism and Hollywood...