What is a Second Banana?

Much of the film industry is about how actors and cast members are ranked against one another. It’s an incredibly competitive industry! Phrases and idioms are constantly being devised for the purpose of defining different roles. And to address different traditions. The nickname “second banana” is one that comes up semi-frequently. But what is a second banana in film and what does it mean?

What is a Second Banana?

The term “second banana” is often used in the film industry to describe the next best role in a comedy. Basically, it’s the secondary, or sidekick role and it may even be referred to as the second fiddle.

The second banana will often work just as hard on the set, and have just as many responsibilities. But they play a supporting role. Generally very close to the primary lead. But without nearly as much credit as the lead receives. 

Where Does the Term “Second Banana” Come From?

Second banana is an idiom that comes from 1950s comedy circuits that featured two-men acts. Generally the lead and the sidekick who was called the second banana. 

In fact, there was a burlesque film that featured an incredibly funny comedy skit. Which included two men, the lead and the sidekick. 

The lead was given a banana after he delivered a punchline joke, thus it was referred to as “top banana” in reference to individuals in the top position of an organization.

It is believed that the term “second banana” comes from a similar scenario in which though there is a secondary role of a lesser position.

The Star of the Show

Thus, top banana references the star of the show, the person that’s in charge and acts as the boss. We’ve actually seen this term used as far back as the 1920, when referencing the top comedian of a feature show.

It is believed that Harry Steppe is the many who coined the term “second banana.” Steppe was a comedian himself as well as a writer. 

So, what is a second banana? The second banana is the support player. The individual that is given half the credit. Despite playing almost as significant of a role as the “first banana” or the lead.

Throughout television, the second banana has been portrayed by characters both male and female. We’ve even seen instances where Scottie Pippen has made light of statues of himself being the “second banana” to Michael Jordan in the movie Lethal Weapon.