The evolving landscape of comedy at the Emmys
The blurred lines of comedy and drama
In recent years, the Primetime Emmys have sparked debates about the classification of shows like The Bear, Barry, and Palm Royale. The question arises: should these shows be considered comedies? This discussion isn’t new; it has been ongoing since the days of Ally McBeal, which won the outstanding comedy Emmy in 1999 despite being an hour-long series with significant dramatic elements.
The shifting definition of comedy
The traditional definition of comedy, especially in the late 90s, was largely confined to multi-camera sitcoms. However, shows like Desperate Housewives, which was nominated for a comedy Emmy, blurred these lines by incorporating campy drama. If Barry is classified as a comedy, then arguably, so should Better Call Saul. This shift is evident in recent winners like The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Fleabag, and Ted Lasso, which blend drama and comedy seamlessly.
The rise of dark comedies
As The Bear stands poised to potentially become the most-honored “comedy” in Emmy history, it raises questions about what defines a comedy today. The show, a half-hour series with comedic elements, chooses its category based on its narrative style. This trend isn’t new; the best comedies have always contained a healthy dose of tragedy.
The legacy of “very special episodes”
If you grew up watching sitcoms in the 70s, 80s, and 90s, you might remember the “very special episode.” These episodes, often airing late in the season, tackled hot-button issues or put characters through emotional turmoil. Norman Lear’s sitcoms, like All in the Family, frequently addressed serious topics. Episodes like “Edith’s 50th Birthday” and “Edith’s Crisis of Faith” dealt with sexual violence and LGBTQ issues, respectively.
The impact of dramatic storytelling
In 1978, All in the Family had three episodes nominated for outstanding comedy writing, with “Cousin Liz” winning the award. These episodes tackled heavier subjects than many modern comedies, including the second season of The Bear. The dramatic storytelling in these episodes set a precedent for future comedies to explore darker themes.
The evolution of sitcoms in the 80s and 90s
By the early 80s, the “very special episode” had become a cliché. Promos would signal these episodes with somber music and a serious tone. Shows like Diff’rent Strokes and Family Ties experimented with dramatic storytelling. The “A, My Name is Alex” episode of Family Ties, which dealt with survivor’s remorse, won the comedy writing Emmy in 1987 despite its dramatic tone.
The shift towards young audiences
In the early 90s, “very special episodes” became more common in shows geared towards young viewers. Series like Full House, Boy Meets World, and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air tackled serious issues, albeit sometimes in a melodramatic fashion. The infamous “caffeine pills” episode of Saved By the Bell is a prime example.
The rise of sophisticated storytelling
The rise of irony and cynicism in the 90s led to the decline of “very special episodes.” However, the advent of cable TV brought back the spirit of Norman Lear, allowing comedies to tackle challenging subjects and feature complex characters. This evolution has blurred the lines between comedy and drama, making it difficult to categorize shows strictly.
Embracing the murky nature of genres
As storytelling continues to evolve, the distinction between comedy and drama becomes increasingly murky. Shows like The Bear exemplify this trend, blending humor with serious themes. As long as we continue to honor quality television, the exact classification of a show becomes less important.
For more insights into these shows, check out the trailers and information pages for The Bear, Barry, and Palm Royale.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of comedy at the Emmys, reflecting on past trends and the current state of television. By examining the history and impact of “very special episodes,” we can better understand the blurred lines between comedy and drama in today’s TV shows.