Running gag

Definition

A running gag is a comedic device where a joke or humorous situation is repeated multiple times throughout a television show, often with slight variations or context changes. This technique enhances humor by building familiarity with the audience and creating anticipation for how the gag will play out each time it appears, contributing to the overall wit and comedic tone of the show.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Running gags often evolve over time, becoming more elaborate or contextually rich as the series progresses, enhancing their comedic value.
2. They rely on character reactions and interactions, making them more impactful when characters respond differently to the same situation in different episodes.
3. Successful running gags can become iconic elements of a show, sometimes even defining its style of humor or establishing a strong connection with viewers.
4. These gags can also create a sense of community among fans, who look forward to these recurring jokes and share them as part of their viewing experience.
5. Running gags may sometimes tie into character development, reflecting how characters grow or change in response to the humor over time.

Review Questions

• How does a running gag contribute to the overall humor of a television show?
  • A running gag enhances the humor of a television show by establishing a recurring comedic element that audiences come to expect and enjoy. This repetition creates familiarity and allows viewers to build anticipation for how it will be executed each time it appears. The familiarity not only strengthens viewer engagement but also provides opportunities for variations that can lead to deeper comedic moments as the context evolves throughout the series.
• In what ways can a running gag evolve over time, and what impact does this evolution have on audience perception?
  • A running gag can evolve by incorporating new contexts or character reactions that add depth and freshness to the original joke. As it develops, it can provide insight into character growth and deepen emotional connections with the audience. This evolution keeps the humor relevant and engaging, allowing viewers to see how characters interact with the gag differently over time, thereby enhancing overall enjoyment and keeping them invested in the storyline.
• Evaluate the role of running gags in creating community among viewers of a television show, especially in terms of shared experiences and fandom.
  • Running gags play a significant role in fostering community among viewers by providing shared experiences that fans can relate to and discuss. These recurring jokes become touchstones for fans, creating inside jokes that enhance bonding within fandoms. As viewers reference and celebrate these gags in conversations, social media, and fan creations, they contribute to a collective identity that strengthens their connection not just to the show but also to each other, deepening their engagement with both the content and fellow viewers.

Related terms

callback: A callback is a joke or reference that refers back to an earlier moment in the same show, usually creating humor by reminding the audience of a previous setup.

punchline: The punchline is the final part of a joke that delivers the humor or surprise, often providing a twist that resolves the setup.

comedic timing: Comedic timing refers to the pacing and rhythm with which jokes or humorous moments are delivered, crucial for maximizing their impact and effectiveness.