Is Outrage Killing Comedy? Conan O’Brien Sounds the Alarm
Conan O’Brien recently voiced a concern echoing in comedy circles: has the relentless political polarization, particularly surrounding figures like Donald Trump, inadvertently stifled humor? Speaking at the Oxford Union, O’Brien argued that the constant barrage of outrage has created a comedic landscape lacking a “straight line” – a necessary foundation for effective satire. Instead, we’re left with a “bendy, rubbery line,” a chaotic environment where simply expressing anger is often mistaken for wit.
The Problem with Punching Down (and Up?)
O’Brien’s core argument isn’t about avoiding political commentary. It’s about the way that commentary is delivered. He suggests that relying solely on anti-Trump sentiment, while cathartic for some, risks becoming predictable and, crucially, unfunny. He likened it to a “siren leading you into the rocks,” where anger replaces artistry. This isn’t a new debate. Comedians have always tackled political issues, but the effectiveness hinges on insightful observation and clever writing, not just vocal opposition.
This resonates with a broader trend. A 2023 study by Pew Research Center showed a significant increase in political polarization in the US, with Americans increasingly viewing those across the aisle not just as wrong, but as fundamentally immoral. This heightened animosity makes finding common ground – a key ingredient for successful satire – increasingly difficult.
The Satire Paradox: When Reality Outstrips Fiction
O’Brien highlighted a particularly frustrating challenge: reality has become so absurd that parody often feels redundant. He used the example of imagining a Trump sketch, only to realize the actual events unfolding are already more outlandish than anything a comedian could invent. This echoes a sentiment expressed by many late-night hosts and satirists since 2016. As The Daily Show’s Trevor Noah often pointed out, the news cycle frequently rendered his carefully crafted jokes obsolete before they even aired.
Did you know? Satire traditionally relies on exaggeration to expose folly. When reality is already exaggerated, the satirist’s job becomes exponentially harder.
Beyond Trump: A Larger Trend in Comedy
While Trump serves as a focal point, O’Brien’s concerns extend beyond a single politician. The issue is the broader shift towards performative outrage and the conflation of comedy with activism. While activism is valuable, it’s a distinct art form. Comedy’s power lies in its ability to disarm, to provoke thought through laughter, and to expose hypocrisy without necessarily taking sides. When comedy becomes solely a vehicle for expressing pre-existing beliefs, it loses its subversive edge.
The Future of Funny: Finding the “Straight Line” Again
So, what does the future hold for comedy? Several trends are emerging:
- Return to Observational Humor: Comedians like Jerry Seinfeld have consistently found success by focusing on the mundane aspects of everyday life, offering a respite from political turmoil.
- Character Work & Storytelling: Creating memorable characters and weaving narratives allows comedians to explore complex themes without relying on direct political jabs. Bo Burnham’s Inside, a critically acclaimed comedy special filmed during the pandemic, is a prime example.
- Embracing Nuance: Acknowledging the complexities of issues, rather than presenting them in black and white, can lead to more insightful and genuinely funny material.
- Self-Deprecation: Turning the lens inward and poking fun at oneself can be a powerful way to connect with audiences and avoid the pitfalls of “punching down.”
Pro Tip: Comedians who can find the humor in shared human experiences, rather than solely focusing on political divides, are likely to thrive in the years to come.
The Importance of Comedy as a Weapon
O’Brien rightly emphasized that “good art will always be a great weapon against power.” However, that weapon is dulled when it’s wielded solely with anger. Comedy’s strength lies in its ability to challenge authority, expose hypocrisy, and foster critical thinking – but only when it’s genuinely funny. The challenge for comedians today is to navigate a deeply polarized landscape while rediscovering the art of making people laugh.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Conan O’Brien saying comedians shouldn’t address politics?
A: No, he’s saying that relying solely on anger and anti-Trump sentiment isn’t effective comedy. He believes comedians need to be funny first and foremost.
Q: Is political comedy dying?
A: Not necessarily, but it needs to evolve. The most successful political comedy will likely be that which offers insightful commentary and clever writing, rather than simply expressing outrage.
Q: What’s the difference between comedy and activism?
A: Activism aims to persuade and mobilize. Comedy aims to entertain and provoke thought, often through laughter. While they can overlap, they are distinct art forms.
Want to delve deeper into the world of comedy and satire? Check out Rolling Stone’s list of the best comedy specials of 2023. Share your thoughts on the future of comedy in the comments below!
