Ryan Stiles

Ryan Stiles is an Emmy-nominated American-Canadian comedian, actor, and producer recognized for his expertise in improvisational comedy. After leaving high school before graduation, Stiles began performing stand-up comedy in Vancouver, which marked the start of his career in the comedy industry. He supported himself through stand-up and work in Canadian television, serving as head writer for The Don Harron Show on CTV and as host of CBC's Comedy College, while also performing regularly at the Vancouver TheaterSports League, where he met collaborator Colin Mochrie. Stiles later joined the Second City comedy ensemble, performing at the Vancouver Expo, then on the Mainstage at Second City Toronto alongside Mike Myers, before relocating to Los Angeles.

Stiles gained widespread recognition when he joined the cast of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?"—an improvisational series that challenged comedians to create skits, characters, and musical numbers based on audience suggestions. He became the show's longest-running performer, appearing in 76 of its 136 episodes, while also maintaining a presence on television in both the United States and Canada. His work on the program earned him critical attention and a dedicated following in the United Kingdom.

Stiles' improvisational talent attracted the attention of Drew Carey, who cast him as Lewis Kiniski on "The Drew Carey Show." While working on the sitcom, Stiles and Carey also brought "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" to American television, serving as both producers and on-air performers during its extended runs on ABC and ABC Family. Stiles received a nomination for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program for his work on the show. He later returned as performer and executive producer for The CW's revival of "Whose Line Is It Anyway?"

Stiles portrayed Dr. Herb Melnick on "Two and a Half Men" and appeared in the comedy films "Hot Shots!" and "Hot Shots! Part Deux." In addition to his on-screen work, Stiles is a co-founder of the Upfront Theatre in Bellingham, Washington, a venue dedicated to improv performance and education. He remains involved with the Upfront Theatre, mentoring young performers and making occasional guest appearances on television.

Stiles has contributed to charitable causes, raising more than $500,000 for the Burned Children Recovery Center and supporting the foundation's recovery efforts. With a career spanning more than four decades, Stiles is known for his improvisational skills and timing, influencing generations of comedians through his work in stand-up, television, and film.