Comedy has been a remarkable part of our society in the present day. It has made huge strides in the entertainment industry lately and has been quite popular in people of all age groups. Stand-up comedy has gained a lot of audience in recent times and people tend to enjoy a good session of stand-up comedy after a hectic day at work. However, what happens when comics tend to explore the dark and arguable parts of society? What’s wrong with offensive comedy?
The unwritten rule in the comedy industry is that it is okay for a comedian to make offensive jokes about a community if he/she belongs to the same community. An Asian can make jokes about an Asian. If you are gay, you can make jokes on gays. However, the problem arises when a person who’s not a member of the community makes jokes about it. Then it is considered offensive. This type of comedy is called Comedy of Terrors. A lecturer from the Northeastern University wrote about what’s wrong with offensive comedy and why is it so common these days. He explained about how comedians have matured and understood that some topics are not to be spoken about in their sets. They know it’s no longer appropriate to make anti-black or anti-woman jokes. Some people tend to speak about breaking certain stereotypes. However, there is a fine line between funny and offending. Some people use their comedy to express their opinions about certain issues in the community which is taken wrong by some people. Some tend to create awareness on some topics in their content.
While some comedians are deemed to be offensive because of their work, some are also praised in a certain way for being daring and fearless. Sometimes the comedians have to experience really harsh consequences for their work but it doesn’t stop them from following their passion. It’s all about expressing their views and opinions using the gift of art that they have been blessed with.
Luvpreet Singh