Tracing the thread

: an exploration into the state of contemporary televised satire in the United Kingdom

Abstract

This thesis examines the factors that have contributed to the state of contemporary televised satire in the United Kingdom, and the current discussions of impartiality surrounding this comedic style. Through providing context by tracing a thread in the recent history of UK political comedy and current affairs, discussing the regulations in place within the United Kingdom that aim to monitor and enforce impartiality in broadcasting, and conducting a content analysis of contemporary satirical programmes, this thesis establishes that the current regulations are resulting in a lack of understanding regarding the meaning of ‘impartiality’, and fuelling complaints. Furthermore, they lead to satire that struggles to hold those in power to account whilst also satisfying their audiences.

Date of Award	27 Sept 2022
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bristol
Supervisor	Alex Clayton (Supervisor) & Kristian O Moen (Supervisor)