Comedy in Dark Times, with Armando Iannucci and Helen Lewis, Part Two

Mar 31, 2024

Armando Iannucci, one of Britain’s most cherished comedy writers, celebrated for shows like Veep and The Thick Of It, joins journalist Helen Lewis for an engaging talk. They explore the influence of comedy and satire in navigating today's tumultuous political landscape. Iannucci discusses how humor can help us cope with global crises and holds politicians accountable, while questioning whether it's right to laugh in an unstable world. Their conversation delves into the subversive power of comedy and its vital role in challenging authoritarianism.

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ANECDOTE

Voter ID Backfire

Jacob Rees-Mogg admitted that a policy intended to suppress voter turnout among certain groups actually backfired.
This highlights the unintended consequences of voter suppression tactics.

ANECDOTE

UK vs. US Elections

Iannucci contrasts Florida's strict voting procedures with the UK's volunteer-run elections, expressing concern over growing restrictions.
He finds the UK's increasing voter ID requirements disturbing, highlighting the potential for democratic erosion.

INSIGHT

GB News and Validity

GB News, despite its factual inaccuracies, can make certain opinions appear valid.
This blurs the lines between journalism and opinion, potentially misleading viewers.

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This is the second instalment of a three-part discussion. Armando Iannucci is one of Britain’s best-loved comedy writers. The creator of hit shows such as The Thick Of It, Veep and Alan Partridge, Iannucci is renowned for his sharp political satire and parodies of the rich and powerful. His latest project, a West End stage production of Stanley Kubrick’s Oscar-nominated black comedy Dr. Strangelove, focuses on a rogue US general who triggers a nuclear crisis. In March 2024 Iannucci came to the Intelligence Squared stage where, in conversation with author and journalist Helen Lewis, he discussed the role of satire and comedy in dark times. Can comedy help us cope emotionally with world events such as war and conflict? Does satire still have the power to hold politicians to account? Should we really be laughing at our increasingly unstable and risky world?

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