When Laughter Ages

Why do scenes that once made us roar with laughter now make us shift uncomfortably in our seats? When Laughter Ages is a bold and insightful journey through 75 years of Hollywood comedy, uncovering the jokes, tropes, and characters that once delighted audiences but would spark outrage today. From the "dumb blonde" stereotype to racial gags, from slapstick violence to the casual sexism disguised as humor, this book unpacks how cultural values have transformed—and why modern comedians struggle to navigate an increasingly sensitive world. Through 12 sharply written chapters (plus a bonus chapter on evolving language), the book explores: Gender humor that normalized misogyny Racial and cultural caricatures that reinforced stereotypes Disability jokes used as punchlines Body shaming and fat suits as comedic shortcuts Slapstick violence now viewed as abusive The queer caricature and gay-panic humor Children in adult situations played for laughs Romantic "pursuits" that were actually harassment Political correctness, cancel culture, and social media outrage reshaping modern comedy With a balanced tone—neither preachy nor nostalgic—the book reveals how comedy reflects the world that creates it, and why creators today walk a tightrope between boldness and backlash. Whether you're a film enthusiast, screenwriter, comedian, cultural critic, or casual reader, this book offers a compelling look at how humor ages—and what that says about us.