The Andrew Klavan Show The New Generation of Comedy Arising Online | Spencer Klavan
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Aug 20, 2025 Spencer Klavan, a writer with a PhD in classics from Oxford, dives into the evolving landscape of American culture and comedy. He discusses the rising tide of normalcy in the arts and the challenges of creative content in the digital age. Klavan highlights the impact of political correctness on humor, advocating for creative freedom while embracing the new wave of individual content creators. The conversation also touches on how platforms like TikTok are reshaping artistic expression and challenging traditional norms.
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Judge Art By Intent And Execution
- Spencer argues conservatives have reason to bristle at aggressive cultural redefinitions but shouldn't reflexively reject every artistic experiment.
- He recommends judging a work by its intent and execution rather than only by provocative casting or identity choices.
Reinterpretation Can Counter Original Impiety
- Spencer says Jesus Christ Superstar is an anti-Jesus rock opera that invites reinterpretation rather than sacred preservation.
- He finds Cynthia Erivo's performance reframes Jesus as a visionary, soft-spoken figure that counters the show's original impiety.
Comedy Needs Shared Cultural Ground
- Spencer explains comedy depends on a shared cultural background to land its jokes.
- He argues a functioning monoculture still exists, but big-budget makers ignore it if it conflicts with their values.
