Ever wondered what spices up the stand-up scene with a dash of naughtiness? That’s Blue Comedy for you – humor that treads the line of what’s considered decent, tapping into themes that are bolder, often risqué, and undeniably funny.
It’s the art of delivering punchlines that might just make your grandma blush.
In this quick guide, Rachel Parris will explore what is blue comedy, revealing why it tickles the funny bone of adults across the globe.
Contents
What is Blue Comedy: All About Dirty Jokes and Off-Color Comedy
If you’ve ever sat in a comedy club and heard jokes that were a smidgen more, let’s say, colorful than your average sitcom zingers, you’ve probably had a taste of blue comedy.
This style isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s comedy that boldly presses all the politically incorrect buttons and isn’t afraid to get a little risqué, or a lot, for that matter.
Blue comedy or ribaldry is the grown-up’s playground of humor, complete with all the swear words, sexual innuendos, and toilet humor you were told to steer clear of at the dinner table.
Now, don’t confuse blue comedy with just any offensive joke. Nope, this genre is a craft. It’s about timing, delivery, and, believe it or not, some pretty sophisticated psychology.
Comedians who master this art know exactly how to walk that fine line between shockingly funny and just plain shocking.
Why Is It Called Blue Comedy
So, why the color blue? It’s not because these comedians are sad. The term blue has been kicking around the entertainment world for decades, often whispered in the back rooms of smoky night clubs where performers pushed the envelope.
Some say it hails from the Blue Laws, which regulated moral conduct in the past, including what performers could say on stage.
If your act was considered too blue, it was borderline—or over the line—of what was socially acceptable. In a way, to go blue was to go rogue with your humor.
Examples of Blue Comedy
To give you a real taste of blue comedy, think of comics like George Carlin, Richard Pryor, and more recently, Amy Schumer. These are the folks who serve up their observations with a no-holds-barred approach.
They tackle everything from sex to politics, all with a wink and a nod, knowing full well they’re delivering the comedic equivalent of a spicy jalapeño.
Remember George Carlin’s famous Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television? That bit was a blue comedy hallmark, not just for its shock value but for its commentary on censorship and freedom of speech. It was edgy, it was in-your-face, and yes, it was hilariously blue.
And let’s not forget the likes of Mae West and Lenny Bruce, who were blue comedy pioneers, proving that this style isn’t just for the guys.
Mae West, in particular, delivered lines that could make you blush two shades of red, all while maintaining her glamorous composure.
TV Shows and Stand-Up that Use Blue Comedy
Blue Comedy on the TV Screen
When it comes to TV, blue comedy had to play it a bit coy, especially in the earlier years. You had shows like Married with Children or Sanford and Son, which, while not overtly blue, definitely dipped their toes in the waters with innuendo and brazen characters.
Fast forward a bit, and you hit shows like South Park and Family Guy, animations that may look kid-friendly but are steeped in blue humor, tackling everything from politics to personal idiosyncrasies with a boldness that only cartoons seem to get away with.
Then there’s the beloved The Office (US version), with Steve Carell’s Michael Scott delivering cringe-worthy yet hilarious lines that often venture into blue territory.
The show’s brilliance lies in its ability to be inclusive with its humor, ensuring the blue comedy serves the story and character development, not just there for shock value.
Another Blue comedy film that I want you to know is Airplane Mode (2019) written by
David Dinetz, Dylan Trussell, Logan Paul and Jake Paul. This piece of comedy film will deserve for anyone to explore what is blue value in comedic film.
Blue Humor on the Stand-Up Stage
On the stand-up stage, blue comedy is in its natural habitat. Stand-up allows comedians to interact directly with their audience, reading the room, and pushing as far as the crowd allows.
Comedians like Eddie Murphy in his iconic Raw performance or Dave Chappelle in his numerous Netflix specials exhibit the quintessential blue comedy style.
They deliver thought-provoking and side-splitting routines that touch on taboo subjects, often leaving the audience with a mix of shock, reflection, and, of course, laughter.
FAQs about Blue Comedy
Is blue comedy offensive?
It can be. Blue comedy often pushes the boundaries of conventional decency, which can offend some audiences. It’s subjective and varies greatly depending on personal tastes and tolerance for risqué humor.
Can blue comedy be found on mainstream TV?
Yes, blue comedy has made its way into mainstream television, especially with the advent of cable TV and streaming services that have more lenient content restrictions than traditional network television.
How does blue comedy differ from other comedy genres?
Unlike other comedy genres that may skirt around sensitive subjects or use innuendo, blue comedy is direct, explicit, and unfiltered in its approach to controversial topics.
Are there famous blue comedians?
Absolutely. Notable blue comedians include Richard Pryor, George Carlin, Eddie Murphy, Lenny Bruce, Sarah Silverman, and Amy Schumer, among others.
Is blue comedy just about shock value?
While shock value can be an element, the best blue comedy often includes social commentary and sharp observations about human nature and society.
Can blue comedy be smart?
Definitely. Many blue comedians are quite intelligent and use their platform to challenge social norms and provoke thought, despite the explicit nature of their material.
Conclusion
In the landscape of humor, blue comedy stands out for its daring and edgy content, pushing boundaries and eliciting belly laughs with its unfiltered take on life’s not-so-PG aspects.
Remember, while blue comedy may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it certainly keeps the bold-hearted coming back for more.
Thank you for reading this article!
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