The History of Comedy

The History of Comedy

Explore what makes us laugh, why, and how that's influenced our social and political landscape throughout history.

DocumentaryComedy

Seasons

F***ing Funny

1. F***ing Funny

Air Date: 2017-02-09

The evolution of inappropriate humor throughout history is traced, showcasing the work from groundbreaking comedians who risked their careers, prison sentences and even their lives as they fought against censorship.

The Funnier Sex

2. The Funnier Sex

Air Date: 2017-02-16

A look at the greatest female comedians and how they were able to succeed in every genre where humor is found despite rampant sexism and prejudice.

The Comedy of Real Life

3. The Comedy of Real Life

Air Date: 2017-02-23

A look at how comedians find humor in the simple, daily experiences most people share.

One Nation, Under Comedy

4. One Nation, Under Comedy

Air Date: 2017-07-16

The evolution of racial humor and how comedy about shared experiences can cross cultural barriers to unite people in laughter are explored.

Ripped from the Headlines

5. Ripped from the Headlines

Air Date: 2017-07-23

The origins of topical humor are traced, from the invention of the monologue to the "fake news" shows of today.

The Spark of Madness

6. The Spark of Madness

Air Date: 2017-07-30

The mind of the comedian is explored, as well as the difficult road that many seem destined to take where mental illness and substance abuse are remarkably common.

On Parody and Satire

7. On Parody and Satire

Air Date: 2017-08-06

Demonstrating how effective and funny it can be when you look at something serious and just twist it ever so slightly.

8. Politics Aside

Air Date: 2017-08-13

A look at the many different ways that comedy has lampooned and influenced politics over the years.

1. Carnal Knowledge

Air Date: 2018-07-15

How sexual humor, one of the oldest forms of comedy, pushes the limits of both comfort and political correctness.

2. Sketch & Improv

Air Date: 2018-07-22

Exploring the history of sketch and improv comedy and how it evolved into a significant part of comedic talent today.

3. Drawn To Be Funny

Air Date: 2018-07-29

The history between animation and comedy.

4. Gone Too Soon

Air Date: 2018-08-05

Exploring the passing of comedic legends and how the connection with their audiences make the loss more significant.

5. In It Together

Air Date: 2018-08-12

The history of comedic duos and the evolution of comedy teams.

6. No Offense

Air Date: 2018-08-19

Exploring family-friendly comedy and the struggles of abiding by strict network censors.

Select an episode to start watching

Rating

6.6/10

Release Date

2017-02-09

Episodes

14 (2 seasons)

Status

Returning Series

Cast

Videos

Production Companies

CNN Documentary Unit