Gary Larson’s Far Side cartoons remain some of the funniest of all time because of their unique blend of wit, absurdity, and relatability. Each cartoon - with its simple drawings and profound humor - showcases Larson’s unparalleled ability to make us laugh at the mundane and the bizarre alike. These funniest Far Side cartoons of all time are a testament to Gary Larson’s unique blend of wit and absurdity.

GTN / Gary Larson’s one-panel wonders have captivated readers for decades, blending everyday scenarios with bizarre twists and unforgettable characters.

The Chicken's Perspective

One of the funniest Far Side cartoons of all time features a chicken standing by the road with a disgruntled look, explaining why it crossed the street. This cartoon plays on the classic joke but with Larson's twist. The chicken’s reasoning is hilariously mundane, encapsulating Larson's ability to make the ordinary extraordinary.

In this cartoon, Larson's humor shines through the chicken's deadpan expression and the absurdity of the situation. The simplicity of the drawing contrasts perfectly with the depth of the joke, making it a timeless favorite among fans.

The Cow Tools is One of the Funniest Far Side Cartoons of All Time

"Cow Tools" is another gem among the funniest Far Side cartoons of all time. This panel shows a cow with an assortment of poorly made tools. The cartoon baffled readers and led to a flurry of interpretations. But its absurdity is precisely what makes it so memorable.

Comics Hub / "Cow Tools" is a perfect example of how Larson could create a stir with a simple, yet perplexing image.

However, Larson later explained that the tools were not meant to make sense, emphasizing the randomness that is often central to his humor.

Midvale School for the Gifted

One of the most iconic and funniest Far Side cartoons of all time is the "Midvale School for the Gifted." It depicts a student trying to push open a door clearly labeled "Pull." This simple yet brilliant joke highlights Larson’s knack for blending intellectual humor with everyday situations.

The cartoon's setting and the oblivious student's struggle resonate with anyone who has ever felt a bit out of place. It is a humorous nod to human nature and the small, relatable mishaps of life.

The Boneless Chicken Ranch

Next up: The "Boneless Chicken Ranch" is another classic that earns its spot among the funniest Far Side cartoons of all time. It depicts chickens flopping around without bones, a literal and comically absurd interpretation of a ranch that raises boneless chickens.

Larson's genius lies in taking a familiar concept and turning it on its head. The image of boneless chickens is both ridiculous and oddly plausible.

Beware of Dog

In this cartoon, a seemingly harmless dog stands behind a fence with a sign that reads, "Beware of Dog." The twist? The dog is tiny and harmless-looking, adding a layer of irony that is quintessential to Larson.

YT / The humor in Larson’s “Beware of Dog” is in the unexpected reversal of expectations.

Thus, the menacing sign contrasts sharply with the reality, showcasing Larson's ability to find comedy in the subversion of norms.

The Real Reason Dinosaurs Became Extinct

Larson's take on why dinosaurs went extinct is one of the funniest Far Side cartoons of all time. It shows dinosaurs smoking cigarettes, suggesting that they succumbed to bad habits rather than a cataclysmic event.

God at His Computer

In this panel, God is depicted sitting at a computer, about to press a "Smite" button aimed at an unsuspecting human. This cartoon merges divine omnipotence with modern technology, creating a humorous commentary on fate and human helplessness.

The brilliance of this cartoon lies in its simplicity and the immediate recognition of the scenario. It’s a perfect blend of theological and technological humor, solidifying its place among the funniest Far Side cartoons of all time.

Trouble Brewing

This cartoon features two deer, one with a bullseye on its chest. The caption reads, "Bummer of a birthmark, Hal." It's a simple yet powerful joke that encapsulates Larson's dark humor perfectly.

However, the cartoon's effectiveness lies in its stark simplicity and the immediate recognition of the unfortunate deer's predicament.