The media is constantly looking for new ways to incorporate comedy within the entertainment industry. Culture jamming is one way that this can be done. In the Media and Society textbook, culture jamming is described as “a form of media activism that subverts and reworks the intended meaning of existing media texts, or parodies major corporations, public figures, and their media images” (O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2012, 213). One example of culture jamming would be certain television shows that create parodies and jokes based on the latest headline new stories. I do believe that it would be legitimate to suggest that satirical news reporting is a mainstream form of culture jamming.
Although many people find these shows as hysterical, others may feel that they are unnecessary and in fact not funny at all. Television shows such as The Daily Show and Rick Mercer Report still provides the audience with the current news stories, however, they portray the information in a way that is comical and more enjoyable. Personally, I would rather watch a satirical news reporting, which would give keep me updated on what I need to know around the world, yet still keep me laughing and intrigued. Viewer’s respond more positively if they are provided with jokes that they can relate to. It is essential that we, as the viewers, keep ourselves updated on what is going on in the world.
Although fake news is creating jokes based on the actual news stories, there are some topics, such as natural disasters, car accidents and crimes, which are not a joking matter. Producers run the risk of crossing the line with certain stories, which could result in offended viewers. There are also advertisements that have been spoofed which leads to companies who feel insulted, who can then take legal action. The textbook states, “there can be serious legal implications. Culture jammers can be sued for brand tarnishment, brand infringement, copyright violation, and even defamation” (O’Shaughnessy & Stadler, 2012, 224).
In the media, stories always get changed around. It’s like that game called Telephone – everyone tells the story differently; some people add in new information and some leave parts out. This information is useful to the public sphere because viewers are still being provided with the news, its just portrayed through a different, more jokingly way. This way, everyone can have his or her own opinion. Take the Rob Ford story for example. Although the news is providing everyone with rue information, many people twist the story and make jokes off what they’ve heard. People take pictures, add funny captions, make drug related jokes, and so on. Instead of leaving the audience bored, satirical news makes it more fun.
torigligic 