BBC comedy chief Shane Allen on why the Corporation set up a Comedy Association
British comedy is one of our greatest cultural triumphs exported the world over; from Chaplin to Fleabag it’s something we’re exceptional at. Laughter is one of life’s great joys - it unites and connects us, benefits mental health and defines our national character. Yet British comedy is facing unprecedented challenges.
BBC Comedy has evolved to meet the needs of a comedy landscape transformed by the US streaming services accelerating the battle for British talent, but the events of the last nine months have decimated the live comedy scene which is the lifeblood of TV comedy.