Comedians Face Challenges Amid Changing Humor Landscape

In a recent series of letters published on August 3, 2025, readers expressed concerns about the evolving landscape of comedy and service industry practices. The discussions highlighted the tension between humor and societal sensitivities, alongside criticism of service fees that mislead consumers.

Comedy Under Pressure

One correspondent, Allan Leggate from Toronto, lamented the current state of comedy, arguing that it is being stifled by increasing sensitivities among various groups. He reminisced about classic U.K. comedies, including Monty Python and Fawlty Towers, and noted the sharp wit of comedian Billy Connolly. Leggate believes that humor is an essential part of life, stating, “In today’s stressful world, we need a laugh.”

Leggate’s letter illustrates a broader sentiment that contemporary comedy has become overly sanitized, potentially losing its edge. He pointed out the artistic ability of comedians to address serious topics through humor, referencing iconic performances like Charlie Chaplin in “The Great Dictator” and the political narratives presented by Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine. In contrast, he mentioned leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, suggesting that their humor is less likely to resonate with audiences.

Service Fees and Tipping Concerns

Another letter from Steen I. Petersen of Nanaimo, B.C., raised alarms regarding the practices of delivery service companies like DoorDash. He criticized the Competition Bureau for its focus on misleading service fees while ignoring the issue of tipping, which he describes as a circumvention of employee wage protection laws. Petersen argued that the expectation for customers to add substantial tips artificially inflates the costs of services and undermines fair pricing.

He questioned the legality of allowing service industries to rely on tips as a means of compensating employees, suggesting that it effectively creates unequal applications of wage protections. Petersen believes that all businesses should adhere to the same standards and that tipping practices should be reexamined to ensure transparency and fairness for both consumers and employees.

These letters reflect a growing concern about the balance between humor and sensitivity in comedy, as well as the transparency of service pricing in the gig economy. As societal norms continue to evolve, the conversations around these topics are likely to persist, prompting further examination and discussion.