Comedy Quote by B. J. Porter
“For a long time networks just wanted to buy imitations of other shows - i.e. Curb (the Enthusiasm or the Office). The word gets out that "Hey, we want to buy something like that" and every comedy producer just starts dreaming up ideas like that.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Podcast on TV comedy trends, 2020
Comedy creators often copy successful formats, leading to repetitive ideas and lack of originality.
In simple terms: Copying popular shows stifles fresh comedy.
Key Takeaway
Seek unique concepts, not imitations.
Themes
creativity
originality
media
industry
trends
Mood
frustrated
critical
analytical
Type
observational
industry commentary
When to use this quote
- TV development meetings
- writer's rooms
- pitch sessions
- network greenlights
- content strategy
Key Concepts
imitation
trend following
creative risk
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you innovate within a familiar genre?
- What risks do you face when breaking from trends?
A Different Perspective
Copying can still succeed if it adds new twists.
