Humor that’s funny from Ellen DeGeneres

Originally posted at Female Impersonator

I came across a gif this morning that featured this quote from Ellen DeGeneres, “Most comedy is based on getting a laugh at somebody else’s expense. And I find that that’s just a form of bullying in a major way. So I want to be an example that you can be funny and kind, and make people laugh without hurting somebody else’s feelings.”

I love this quote. I love it because it calls out people who tell jokes that are mean-spirited and perpetuate a culture of bullying marginalized groups but also points to a positive example of humor that doesn’t fall into that bullshit.

As an example I feel the need insert a piece of comedy from Ms. DeGeneres that is subverting, rather than playing into, sexist stereotypes (unfortunately I don’t have a transcript for this but if someone else does I will love you eternally if you put it in comments).

If any of you have other examples of comedians who are funny without resorting to laughing at other people’s expense, let me know! I am always down for a giggle fest.

Disclaimer: This post was written by a Feministing Community user and does not necessarily reflect the views of any Feministing columnist, editor, or executive director.

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