Following on from the Ricky Gervais Twitter controversy, and the article I wrote about it for New Left Project, ApexJazz calls in to discuss the whole affair. We quickly get onto the role of irony in modern comedy, and agree that there are too many comics hiding behind it, and that they should be free to say what they really mean. Then we talk about a range of other associated topics, such as whether comedians should ever apologise, and the notion of political correctness. What is it that makes people speak out against it? The Stewart Lee video referenced in this podcast is embedded below, and is one of my favourite things.
Then I’m joined by Kelvin, for a quick chat about Louise Mensch’s recent appearance on Have I Got News For You. As you can see, she tries to undermine protests in a way which is nonsensical, and which doesn’t actually engage with the issues. Kelvin concludes that her problem is with any form of political protest, and that ‘cofee and tents’ have little to do with it.
We also talk about how comedy shows like this have what I feel are unique and effective ways to hold the establishment to account.
Great podcast. I just got into the back catalogue of Comedy Chat, and I’m really enjoying hearing comedy being analysed in such depth.