It's been decades since we clocked out of Winfred-Louder for the last time, but the warmth and wit of 'The Drew Carey Show' remain unforgettable. If you still find yourself humming 'Cleveland Rocks,' you're in luck. The creative forces behind the beloved
sitcom are still very much active, and their current work is absolutely worth your attention.
1. Drew Carey
Let's start with the man himself. Drew Carey's journey from sitcom everyman to iconic game show host is the stuff of television legend. Since 2007, he has been the face of 'The Price Is Right,' bringing his signature warmth and humor to the daytime institution. In 2026, he's still at the helm, and CBS recently announced he would also host a 're-imagined' version of 'Undercover Boss,' further cementing his status as a beloved TV personality. Beyond his hosting duties, Carey is a passionate soccer fan and a minority owner of the Seattle Sounders FC. He's also a talented photographer, often sharing his work from U.S. National Team games. Following him offers a glimpse into a creator who has masterfully navigated a long and varied career in entertainment while staying true to his down-to-earth roots.
2. Craig Ferguson
As Drew’s delightfully absurd and villainous boss Nigel Wick, Craig Ferguson was a scene-stealer. Since the show, his career has exploded. He became a Peabody Award-winning late-night host with 'The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson' and a two-time Emmy winner for the game show 'Celebrity Name Game'. In 2026, Ferguson is as busy as ever. He has a new stand-up special titled 'Pants on Fire' in the works and is starring in a new sitcom called 'Quitters'. He also hosts the CNN Original Series 'Craig Ferguson: American On Purpose,' a documentary series where he travels the U.S. to explore the country's identity. Following Ferguson means keeping up with a uniquely thoughtful, hilarious, and prolific creator who continues to reinvent himself.
3. Christa Miller
As the sharp and tomboyish Kate O'Brien, Christa Miller was the grounded center of Drew's friend group. But her work as a creator has truly flourished in the years since. She has become a powerhouse producer and actress, often collaborating with her husband, creator Bill Lawrence. Miller starred as the hilariously acerbic Jordan on 'Scrubs' and the scene-stealing Ellie on 'Cougar Town,' where she also served as music supervisor. Currently, she stars in and is a music supervisor for the critically acclaimed Apple TV+ series 'Shrinking,' which is now in its third season. Her role as the tough-but-tender Liz was created with her in mind and showcases her incredible range. Following Miller is a must for anyone who loves smart, character-driven comedies with killer soundtracks.
4. Ryan Stiles
Ryan Stiles’ portrayal of the lovably eccentric Lewis Kiniski was a masterclass in understated comedic genius. An improv legend, Stiles was a cornerstone of both the UK and U.S. versions of 'Whose Line Is It Anyway?', where he continues to be a main performer on the CW's revival. His chemistry with Drew Carey was so strong that Carey brought him onto the sitcom as one of his best friends. Beyond 'Whose Line?', Stiles had a memorable recurring role as Dr. Herb Melnick on 'Two and a Half Men'. He is also deeply committed to fostering new talent as a co_founder of the Upfront Theatre in Bellingham, Washington, an institution dedicated to teaching and performing improv comedy. While he isn't a heavy social media user, following his live improv tour dates for 'Whose Live Anyway?' is the best way to catch his comedic brilliance in person.
5. Bruce Helford
While you may not know his face, you absolutely know his work. Bruce Helford was the co_creator and executive producer of 'The Drew Carey Show,' and his comedic touch has shaped some of television's most successful sitcoms. Before 'Drew Carey,' he was a writer and producer for 'Roseanne,' and he later returned to serve as the showrunner for its revival and the subsequent hit spinoff, 'The Conners'. His extensive list of creator and producer credits includes 'George Lopez,' 'The Norm Show,' and 'Anger Management'. In late 2026, Helford took over as showrunner for the new NBC sitcom 'Newlyweds,' demonstrating his continued influence in the industry. Following Helford’s career is like having a guide to the landscape of American sitcoms for the past three decades; whatever he’s working on is a sign of where the genre is headed.
