Comedian Age and Political Correctness in Comedy: A Baby Boomer’s Perspective

I grew up listening to legendary comedians like George Carlin and Andrew Dice Clay. They were the kings of raw, unfiltered humor, and I adore them. Do not get offended, buttercup. I am a firm believer in no censorship and the idea that everything can be ridiculed. I completely align with shows like South Park, believing that nothing should be off-limits when it comes to comedy. That's why phrases like 'Don't give a damn about political correctness' resonate with me. We view it as a form of censorship. However, there is more to it than just suppressing free speech.

Respect and Avoiding Harmful Stereotypes

Older comedians often confuse political correctness with censorship, failing to recognize that it's about cultivating respect and avoiding harmful stereotypes. While their disregard for political correctness might stem from a sense of freedom, it can sometimes lead to unintentional offense. I struggle to keep up with the evolving terminologies of the day, and I often find myself asking questions to clarify what is now considered appropriate. This is because, despite our good intentions, we may unintentionally offend people simply due to a lack of knowledge on how to express ourselves correctly.

Audience Loyalty and Gimmick-Based Comedy

For many older comedians, the key to their success lies in the gimmick that defines their act. Think of Jimmy Cricket's Wellington boots and his 'left and right' routine, Stu Francis' 'Crush a Grape' bit, Bernie Clifton's ostrich routine, and Ken Dodd's 'Diddy Men' and 'tickling stick' acts. These routines have become integral to their performances, and audiences have come to expect these specific acts from each of them. Deviating from these tried-and-true routines could leave audiences feeling disappointed and unsatisfied.

Beyond the comedic style, some of this material may be considered politically incorrect. However, in a world where these comedians have built their reputation and found their footing, the safety and consistency of their act take precedence over political correctness. If an actor has always worked, entertained, and been beloved by their audience for decades, the audience is unlikely to complain about a routine that has always served them well. In this context, the act is the most critical element, and any perceived ‘bad touch’ is often overlooked in favor of the overall performance.

Reflections of Society

When we say, 'It's comedy,' we often mean that there are no boundaries and everything is fair game. This stance is particularly popular among older comedians who grew up in a time when such antics were more widely accepted. But, in reality, most comedy is a reflection of society. Comedy acts as both a mirror and a catalyst for social change. While older comedians may not always adhere to the latest norms of political correctness, humor remains a powerful tool for examining and critiquing societal issues.

Conclusion

For baby boomers like me, the challenge of balancing respect, tradition, and evolving societal norms stands as a testament to the complexity of modern comedy. While we deeply value and embrace the raw humor and freedom of expression of the past, the changing landscape of political correctness demands that we continually adapt and refine our approach. Ultimately, the enduring popularity of certain routines and the loyalty of audiences around the world serve as a reminder that, for many, the comedic experience remains paramount.