Should Journalism Be Funny?

Clearly, journalism is constantly taking new forms in attempt to keep up with emergent technology. But is delivering real concrete events humorously taking it too far? It’s a definite possibility that it could be interpreted as disrespectful, or it could be the new booming industry in mainstream media.

Shows like The Daily Show, Colbert Report, Late Night Shows, and Saturday Night Live, are all extremely amusing and in some way or another deliver news. Though the punch lines may not hold much reliable content, a majority of the information on these shows is.

Apparently most of today’s society prefers this form of broadcasting. When it comes to young adults ages 35- 18, comedic journalists like Jon Stewart from The Daily Show, are the main source of news other than the internet. Topics like politics, entertainment, and economics are all covered and mocked during these comedic segments. Research actually shows that these types of programs are the leading source for learning about our recent elections.

I think taking this approach to journalism makes news more appealing to young adults than the average depressing six o’clock news. Additionally, tactics like celebrity appearances can give the program credibility as well engaging the audience.


Feldman, Lauren. "The News About Comedy: Young Audiances, The Daily Show, and Evolving Notions
of Journalism." Sage Publications 82007 412-420. Web.17 Apr 2009. .