Why do audiences watch TV Comedy?

Audience Pleasures

• Narrative pleasures such as those of narrative resolution- Each programme has an end to the story so you always know who it will end.
• Character identification, snowballing narrative, suspense, comedy, and so on- Being able to relate to the characters because they are based on stereotypes in real life. 
• Pleasures of recognition, familiarity and anticipation- Being able to see the types of characters clearly in each episode with similar scenarios and being able to sense what’s going to happen next.
• Pleasures of difference-within-repetition- Noticing similar patterns and catch phrases from each character.
• Performance unpredictability and spontaneity- Makes the audience more attracted to the episode because something out of the ordinary is happening, making it more entertaining.
• Transgressive pleasures- Things to make the audience laugh as the characters often face silly situations.
• Specific pleasures associated with performers or personalities - Recognising performers that audiences have seen perform before.

How do you explain what people enjoy about watching TV Comedy? Read the links to the theory behind audience gratification below before attempting the question.
Write your answer in your exercise book.

Explore why you think people watch TV Comedy, referring to Miranda and Bad Education as examples.