Fictional Characters, Sinful Behavior, and Black Comedy

[JackVk]

My brother has introduced me to several of his favorite black comedy sitcoms, including Archer, Trailer Park Boys, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The common thread among these shows is that the characters are all cartoonishly horrible people. Every one of their activities is a combination of illegal, immoral, and just plain idiotic.

Now granted, these shows do cross the line at times. I fast-forward through those scenes, or avoid the episodes altogether. Is the Schadenfreude of these programs wrong for the viewer to enjoy? They’re not real people, and often they get what they deserve (the whole point is that you are not supposed to want to emulate them).

 

[Ph0enix]

My brother has introduced me to several of his favorite black comedy sitcoms, including Archer, Trailer Park Boys, and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The common thread among these shows is that the characters are all cartoonishly horrible people. Every one of their activities is a combination of illegal, immoral, and just plain idiotic.

Now granted, these shows do cross the line at times. I fast-forward through those scenes, or avoid the episodes altogether. Is the Schadenfreude of these programs wrong for the viewer to enjoy? They’re not real people, and often they get what they deserve (the whole point is that you are not supposed to want to emulate them).

I don’t think it would be sinful as long as you know it is fiction, the show always sunny is one of my favorites

 

[Kay_Cee]

I’m not familiar with the shows you’re talking about. My own personal litmus test, however, is this: If Jesus rang the doorbell, would I invite Him to come inside and watch it with me?

Because, you know, Jesus is there with you anyway while you’re watching.