Lincoln Rice is Broad City's deadpan calm in the storm — a successful, easygoing pediatric dentist and Ilana's on-and-off casual boyfriend, whose unflappable decency and dry wit make him the show's gentle straight man amid the chaos. Patient and good-natured, Lincoln is the rare grounded presence in Abbi and Ilana's anarchic orbit.
His arc gently complicates the show's no-strings ethos. Lincoln's genuine feelings for the commitment-averse Ilana give the series an unexpectedly tender thread, his good-humored push for something more real providing a sweet counterpoint to the duo's hedonism. He embodies a kind of low-key adult contentment the leads are still figuring out.
Hannibal Buress's bone-dry comic timing made Lincoln a fan-favorite foil and a reliable source of the show's biggest understated laughs.
Key Episodes
S1 E1
What a Wonderful World
Lincoln's casual relationship with Ilana is introduced.
S2 E4
Mochalatta Chills
Lincoln's deadpan warmth and feelings for Ilana come to the fore.
Lincoln Rice is one of the central figures in Broad City, a comedy series that aired on Comedy Central from 2014–2019. Within the narrative of Broad City, Lincoln Rice serves as a pivotal character whose decisions and relationships drive key story arcs throughout Seasons 1–5. The character's journey has been central to many of the show's most memorable and discussed moments.
Portrayed by Hannibal Buress, Lincoln Rice has become one of the most recognizable characters in modern television. Hannibal Buress's performance brings nuance and depth to the role, creating a character that resonates with audiences on both intellectual and emotional levels. Hannibal Buress's work has been recognized with 1 major award, reflecting the critical acclaim their portrayal has received.
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? Frequently Asked Questions
Hannibal Buress plays Lincoln Rice, the easygoing dentist and Ilana's on-and-off boyfriend.
Lincoln is the show's grounded straight man, whose genuine feelings for the commitment-averse Ilana add a tender thread.