Comedy has always been a mirror to society, reflecting its absurdities and pushing boundaries. Yet, in today’s landscape, the very essence of comedy is under threat. The fear of causing offense, the pressure to conform, and the looming specter of being canceled cast a shadow over every joke. Gone are the days when comedians could freely push boundaries in pursuit of laughter. The once daring landscape of comedy now navigates safer waters, where every punchline is examined for potential harm. This not only removes sources of enjoyment and enrichment but also affects comedians who bring laughter and relief to people’s lives.

“If people are constantly worried about the possibility of offending even a single person in the audience, they will never be funny.”

Andy Shaw

The concern about causing offense and the pressure to conform can sometimes stifle creativity and genuine expression, raising questions about the freedom of comedians to express themselves.

In the face of these challenges, the question arises: can comedians still freely express themselves in today’s cancel-happy climate? The answer is a resounding “perhaps.” While the obstacles may seem insurmountable, comedy has always been a resilient art form, capable of adapting to different environments.

Ricky Gervais speaks out: defending the art of comedy

Ricky Gervais, an English comedian, actor, director, and writer, captures this well:

If you can’t joke about the most horrendous things in the world, what’s the point of jokes? What’s the point in having humor? Humor is to get us over terrible things.

Ricky Gervais

Gervais highlights humor as a coping mechanism, guiding us through life’s toughest trials. His words touch on a common theme in comedy: subjectivity. What one person finds hilarious, another might find offensive or simply not funny. It’s a reminder that comedy often relies on personal taste and perspective. Gervais’ statement also suggests that being offended doesn’t necessarily invalidate the comedy or make it wrong—it’s a matter of individual feeling and reaction.

The Rollercoaster Romance of the British with Little Britain

Britain, Britain, Britain. We’ve had running water for over ten years, we have a tunnel connecting us to Peru, and we invented the cat.

Narrator at the Little Britain

The British sketch comedy Little Britain, created by David Walliams and Matt Lucas, was once celebrated for its fearless humor and sharp satire. In recent years, however, it has faced backlash for its portrayal of certain characters and stereotypes. Once praised as a masterpiece, it is now regarded by some as a source of national shame.

It’s a reminder of how much the perspectives of people has evolve over time, and how even the most well-loved comedy can be re-evaluated through a different lens.

Social worker: All I want to know Vicky is where is your baby?
Vicky Pollard: Oh, I swapped it for a Westlife CD.
Social worker: Oh my God, how could you.
Vicky Pollard: I know, they’re rubbish.

Little Britain

The narrative explores different aspects of British institutions. The show comprises sketches featuring exaggerated parodies of individuals from diverse backgrounds in Britain. Fun fact: the serie’s name was inspired by both Great Britain and the term “Little Englander,” which basically means someone who is narrow-minded who thinks England is better than all other countries.

First by being removed from all UK streaming platforms due to concerns about the use of blackface by its two stars, David Walliams and Matt Lucas. However few years later the series got back on the screens with the BBC having assured that offensive scenes have been cut from the programme.

This shift reflects how societal perspectives evolve over time and how even the most beloved comedy can be re-evaluated through a different lens. For example:

• Daffyd Thomas (Matt Lucas): Known as “the only gay in the village,” Daffyd’s character exaggerates stereotypes to highlight societal attitudes.
• Vicky Pollard (Matt Lucas): A lower-class teenager who embodies the absurdity of certain stereotypes through her exaggerated behavior.
• Lou and Andy: A duo that plays on the comedic irony of a fake disability.
• Marjorie Dawes: A satire of weight-loss culture, using bluntness to expose societal hypocrisy.
• Carol Beer: An unhelpful receptionist whose catchphrase “Computer says no” has become a cultural staple.

Exploring my comedy preferences

One amusing aspect of aging—approaching the 40s club—is that the older I get, the edgier my humor becomes, and I find mediocre jokes less amusing. I appreciate comedies that dare to challenge societal norms and push boundaries, whether through clever dialogue, eccentric characters, or satirical storytelling.

I appreciate comedies that dare to challenge societal norms and push boundaries. In general, my preference in comedy revolves around humor that is bold and unapologetic, showing no fear in pushing societal boundaries. Whether it’s through clever dialogue, eccentric characters, or satirical storytelling.

Take, for instance, “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” a show that masterfully captures the absurdities of everyday life through the lens of its protagonist, Larry David. What makes this show particularly amusing to me is its knack for taking awkward situations and escalating them to hilariously exaggerated levels.

Moving to the domain of comedy films, Sacha Baron Cohen’s “Borat,” “Bruno,” and “The Dictator” stand out for their humor and satire. With Cohen you can always expect something extraordinary. These films fearlessly tackle taboo subjects and societal norms, often placing their characters in outrageous and uncomfortable situations.

Lastly, Danish comedy series like “Klovn” offer a refreshing take on humor with their unique style and offbeat storytelling. What I find amusing about “Klovn” is its willingness to explore taboo topics with a comedic lens, leading to moments of awkward hilarity. The dynamic between the two main characters, Frank and Casper, as they navigate the ups and downs of adult life, is endearing.

In What Kind of World Do We Live If Comedy Gets Banned?

Perhaps I’ve taken good comedy for granted at times, not fully appreciating its value until faced with the possibility of its absence. Comedy is arguably one of the most challenging genres, as making people laugh—truly laugh, with tears streaming down their faces—is no small feat.

Despite often being underrated compared to other genres, comedy plays a vital role in our lives. It doesn’t always receive the recognition it deserves, but making someone laugh is just as meaningful as making them cry.

P.S. I used the quote “Does My Bum Look Big in This?” in my headline to reference a sketch from The Fast Show, where an insecure woman, played by Annabelle Weir, humorously explores societal norms about appearance. This reflects the show’s ability to address societal norms through witty and satirical humor.

Comedy, at its best, is a form of art that holds a mirror to society – highlighting its flaws, challenging its norms, and reminding us not to take life too seriously. As long as comedians are willing to adapt and audiences are open to being challenged, comedy will continue to thrive.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic! Feel free to share your insights or any other comments you have. Let’s keep the conversation going!