Examining the hedonic and eudaimonic entertainment experiences of the combination of stand-up comedy and human-interest

Abstract

This paper explores audience responses to the combination of comedy and human-interest television, which can lead to the simultaneous experience of hedonic enjoyment and eudaimonic appreciation. This qualitative audience study consists of 21 interviews with members of the public, reflecting on their viewing experiences of Taboe, a Flemish television programme that combines humour and human-interest about stigmatized groups. This research finds that combining hedonic and eudaimonic entertainment experiences could be key in advancing the way in which television programmes talk about stigmatized groups, leading them to a more inclusive, accessible and overall positive narrative.