Kat Dennings has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry with her distinct style and comedic flair, captivating audiences across a variety of platforms including television, film, and music videos. Her career began with a memorable guest appearance as a spoiled Bat Mitzvah girl on the iconic show Sex and the City in 2000. This pivotal role set the stage for her ascent in Hollywood, leading to a starring position in the CW series Raising Dad, which she shared with the late Bob Saget and Brie Larson. She solidified her position in the industry through her portrayal of Darcy Lewis in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and her role as a co-lead in the beloved sitcom 2 Broke Girls.
Primarily known for her comedic talent, Dennings captivates with her dry humor and sharp wit. With over twenty years of experience, she continues to explore new and dynamic roles, including her performance alongside Tim Allen in the upcoming sitcom Shifting Gears. With her iconic red lipstick and unforgettable charm, Dennings remains a formidable presence in entertainment.
10 Shifting Gears (2025–Present)
Riley Parker
In ABC’s sitcom Shifting Gears, Kat Dennings takes on the role of Riley Parker, a recently divorced mother of two who moves back to her hometown to reconnect with her estranged father, Matt Parker, portrayed by Tim Allen. Riley’s sharp humor and independent spirit often clash with her father’s more traditional views, adding layers to her character as she seeks reconciliation while managing the challenges of single parenthood.
The series excellently highlights Riley’s generational conflicts with Matt, resulting in both humorous and poignant moments. The palpable chemistry between Dennings and Allen lends authenticity to their relationship, showcasing the complexities of family dynamics. Riley embodies resilience, navigating personal hurdles in her quest to create a stable home for her children. As Shifting Gears has been renewed for a second season, audiences can look forward to further character development.
9 What If…? (2021)
Darcy Lewis
In the animated series What If…?, Kat Dennings reprises her role as Darcy Lewis from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bringing her character into alternate realities of the MCU. The show explores a myriad of different scenarios and “what if”situations, allowing for expanded storytelling and creative engagement with her beloved character.
Even in animation, Dennings infuses Darcy with her signature energy, blending scientific intellect and relatable warmth. Although her appearances are brief, Darcy’s reimagined role lends a fun twist to her arc, keeping her a fan-favorite and demonstrating Dennings’ ability to connect emotionally with audiences.
8 The House Bunny (2008)
Mona
One of Dennings’ breakout roles was in the 2008 comedy The House Bunny, which follows Shelley (Anna Faris), a former Playboy Bunny who transforms the “ugly” sorority into the campus’s hottest house. Although the film has drawn criticism for its portrayal of women, Dennings’ performance as Mona, the goth girl, stands out due to her unique delivery and cynical perspective.
Dennings skillfully navigates her character’s transformation, illustrating that even amidst changes, individuality can remain intact. Her sharp humor resonates throughout the film, offering both laughter and heartfelt moments.
7 Dollface (2019-2021)
Jules Wiley
In Hulu’s surreal series Dollface, Kat Dennings portrays Jules Wiley, a woman grappling with the aftermath of a challenging breakup. The show artsfully intertwines comedy with emotional depth, emphasizing the significance of friendships and self-recovery in modern womanhood.
With her witty and self-effacing humor, Dennings brings warmth to Jules as she navigates the tumultuous road of rebuilding her social life. The show aptly captures her character’s journey of rediscovery and empowerment, revealing Dennings’ range not just as an actress but also as an executive producer, emphasizing her commitment to this original narrative.
6 Charlie Bartlett (2007)
Susan Gardner
In the 2007 film Charlie Bartlett, Dennings plays Susan Gardner, the insightful daughter of the school principal. Her character embodies a balance of intellect and emotional depth, complementing the film’s quirky humor with genuine pathos. Susan’s relationship with Charlie is multi-dimensional, showcasing her agency and emotional growth throughout the narrative.
Her portrayal is layered, revealing the complexities of adolescence and familial expectations while showcasing her ability to navigate scenes with seasoned actors like Robert Downey Jr. This depth and authenticity not only enriched Dennings’ character but also contributed significantly to the overall tone of the movie.
5 To Write Love on Her Arms (2015)
Renee Yohe
In To Write Love on Her Arms, Dennings embodies Renee Yohe, a real-life individual whose struggles with addiction and mental health issues became the catalyst for a nonprofit organization. The film poignantly conveys Renee’s tumultuous journey through despair and towards recovery, shedding light on the importance of community support.
Dennings’ performance is achingly authentic, capturing the complexity of Renee’s pain while also highlighting her resilience. This role allows Dennings to explore serious themes of mental health, illustrating the power of hope and human connection in recovery.
4 The Thor Series (2011-2022)
Darcy Lewis
Kat Dennings is perhaps best recognized for her portrayal of Darcy Lewis in the Thor series. Starting with 2011’s Thor, Dennings’ character has evolved significantly, providing comic relief amidst the film’s serious themes while also deepening over the course of three films.
Darcy’s journey from a naive intern to a knowledgeable astrophysicist is indicative of Dennings’ skill in blending humor with depth. Her playful portrayal captures the spirit of her character, demonstrating the growth and development of Darcy throughout the series. As she joyfully remarked to the Los Angeles Times,
“She really evolved—she’s so much fun now even. She’s very Scooby-Doo if that makes sense. She’s always three steps behind and reacting to what’s happening with these great expressions. .. She gets things wrong and doesn’t care.”
By her final appearance, Darcy has achieved considerable personal growth, aspiring for higher academic accomplishments while still maintaining her signature humor.
3 Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist (2008)
Norah Silverberg
In Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, Dennings portrays Norah Silverberg, a witty and emotionally nuanced character who grapples with the fallout of a recent breakup. Throughout the film, her journey evolves from a cynical teen to a more open individual, revealing her longing for genuine connection.
Dennings expertly navigates the rollercoaster of emotions accompanying her character’s night filled with adventure and self-discovery, making Norah both relatable and memorable. With her blend of humor and vulnerability, she showcases the authentic exploration of love and emotional complexity within the storyline.
2 WandaVision (2021)
Darcy Lewis
Returning to her roots, Kat Dennings revives her role as Darcy Lewis in the Disney+ series WandaVision. This iteration depicts Darcy as a fully-fledged astrophysicist, integrating humor with insight while unraveling the mysteries of Wanda Maximoff’s altered reality.
Her character acts as a bridge between the audience and the enigmas of Westview, using her scientific knowledge to decipher absurd events while injecting levity into the narrative. Although Darcy is not a superhero, her contributions are vital to the plot development. Dennings’ ability to balance comedic timing with genuine insight enhances the show’s unique storytelling, making her return a delight for fans.
1 2 Broke Girls (2011-2016)
Max Black
Kat Dennings rose to stardom as Max Black in 2 Broke Girls, a character that perfectly aligns with her comedic talents. Max, a street-smart waitress with a dry wit, showcases her strong personality alongside Caroline Channing, a former heiress facing financial struggles. The sitcom, set in Brooklyn, follows their quirky endeavors as they attempt to launch a cupcake business.
Denning’s portrayal of Max is integral to the show’s success, as she delivers sharp one-liners with impeccable timing, bringing authenticity to the unlikely friendship dynamic. The series, which ended in 2016, is celebrated as one of Dennings’ defining roles, capturing the essence of her comedic prowess and the complexity of friendship amid contrasting backgrounds.
The abrupt end of the series left fans longing for closure, yet 2 Broke Girls immortalizes Kat Dennings as a standout star in the entertainment landscape.