If you’ve ever thought that comedy can't change the world, take a trip back to the late 1960s when 'Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In' burst onto the television screens and showed America that humor can be revolutionary. Created by comedy duo Dan Rowan and Dick Martin, this iconic TV show first aired on NBC in 1968 and ran until 1973. Set primarily in beautiful Burbank, California, the show brought together a fantastical mix of sketch comedy, political satire, and cultural critique, all wrapped up in a candy-colored, rapid-fire package. In an era of societal upheaval, it provided a mirror to current events through humor.
At its heart, 'Laugh-In' was as dynamic as the zeitgeist of the late 60s and early 70s. The United States was embroiled in a period of swift change and unrest—a divisive war in Vietnam, the Civil Rights Movement, and the struggle for gender equality permeated everyday life. Into this whirlwind came 'Laugh-In', offering a refreshing perspective that blended irreverence with intelligence.
Politically, the show was liberal for its time. It didn't shy away from poking fun at the establishment, whether that was the government or societal norms. While humor on the show often leaned liberal, it wasn't exclusive; conservative viewpoints could find moments of humor as well. However, the critical edge was typically sharper when aimed at those in power rather than the disenfranchised.
Famous for its catchphrases—“Sock it to me!”, “You bet your sweet bippy!”, and “Here comes the judge!” among others—the show popularized a new type of rapid-fire comedy. The segments were quick and clever, reflecting the frenetic energy of its times. It understood the short attention spans of its audience long before the digital age made it commonplace. This resonates with Gen Z, a generation used to short but impactful storytelling.
'Laugh-In' was also notable for its groundbreaking and sometimes subversive representation. It served as a platform for female comedians at a time when such representation was sparse. With stars like Goldie Hawn and Lily Tomlin, it showcased the comedic prowess of women, challenging the male-dominated comedy scene. The mix of slapstick gags and sophisticated wit enabled these women to become fixtures in the industry.
In fashion and style, 'Laugh-In' was as wild and colorful as a tie-dye dream, capturing the exuberance and experimentation of its era. The cast wore bright, psychedelic costumes, often adding to the chaotic joy of the sketches. This creative and visual abandon represented the breaking down of old social norms and the embrace of a more liberated style—an ethos not entirely foreign to Gen Z with their own bold fashion movements.
Despite its liberal leanings, the show was careful not to alienate conservative viewers completely. While it skewered political figures and mocked conservative positions, it did so with a charm and style that allowed a wide range of viewers to tune in each week. Maybe it’s because the show, at its core, revered cleverness above ideology. It taught its audience that it’s possible to respect humor, even if you don’t agree with the underlying sentiment.
Each episode of 'Laugh-In’ felt like a party, consistently attracting high-profile guests to join the revelry. Everyone from politicians like Richard Nixon, who famously uttered the phrase “Sock it to me?”, to Hollywood luminaries would appear, lending the show a glamorous yet playful edge. This format kept it from becoming pigeonholed as strictly one thing—it could be joyous, sneaky, and occasionally profound, all while garnering a surprisingly diverse audience.
The show's legacy continues to shape comedy today. Many current sketch comedies, such as 'Saturday Night Live', owe a debt of gratitude to its innovative approach to humor. Its seamless blend of satire and slapstick set a high bar for future generations of comedians and continues to challenge the notion of what television comedy could—and should—look like.
While 'Laugh-In' wrapped in 1973, its influence is not just historical but ongoing, reflected in today’s cultural landscape. Whether it was through its format, style, or fearless approach to controversial topics, it made comedy a serious player in societal discourse. For Gen Zers, who are often tied into social justice and political transparency, the show’s balance of comedy with pointed criticism seems timelessly relevant.
As we navigate our own tumultuous times, revisiting a show like 'Laugh-In' provides valuable insights into how to humorously yet critically assess the world. It champions the idea that laughter is an essential ingredient in progress and understanding, regardless of the politics or cultural status quo of the day.