Very few things have come under as much scrutiny in recent years as humor, specifically German television humor. A recent unfortunate example came from Dieter Nuhr, who attempted to joke about femicide—first off, a serious issue—by suggesting women should get to know their partner before engaging in sexual relations. This comment sparks an important discussion about the ongoing legacy of sexism within the German comedic landscape.
The Evolution of Humor
The documentary “Was haben wir gelacht,” directed by Eva Müller and Isabel Schneider, vividly documents this evolution. It illustrates how, until the 1980s, West German television was predominantly male-dominated. Figures like Hans-Joachim Kulenkampff and Wim Thoelke featured women mostly as decorations or assistants, perpetuating a severe gender imbalance in humor.
Sexism Was Everywhere
In the 1990s, a change began as female comedians like Hella von Sinnen and Gaby Köster gained prominence, bringing fresh perspectives into the comedic dialogue. Yet, as “Was haben wir gelacht” reveals, despite this apparent progress, sexism remained rampant.
Not Always Easy to Stomach
The film begins by addressing the hardships these female comedians faced. Hella von Sinnen recalls a time when male audience members would walk out during her performances, showing little regard for her contributions. The documentary not only highlights their struggles but also showcases tangible examples of the disrespect they endured.
Viewing clips from various shows underscores the troubling norms of the era, revealing how women were often ridiculed or dismissed. In one particular segment, a male guest attempts to belittle von Sinnen by suggesting she “failed” at carnival performances, dismissing her rebuttal entirely. Such moments force viewers to confront the unsettling realities these women faced.
The Comedy of Harassment
The film also critically re-examines the work of once-beloved male hosts like Thomas Gottschalk and Harald Schmidt. While their humor was once considered progressive, it often relied on demeaning stereotypes. For instance, Schmidt’s question about what a women’s magazine and a toilet bowl had in common was as vulgar as it was revealing, highlighting a painful legacy of sexism that lingers even today.
Many female comedians have since reflected on how to navigate this treacherous landscape. While some, like Gaby Köster, celebrate their hard-won achievements, others express regret and acknowledge their complicity in perpetuating these toxic norms. Esther Schweins, for example, admits discomfort when viewing her own interactions with male hosts, questioning whether the laughter they drew was worth the underlying discomfort.
A Self-Reflective Look Back
Ultimately, “Was haben wir gelacht” serves not only as a historical reference but also as a critical examination of the ongoing battle against sexism in the comedy industry. It shows that while we’ve come a long way, the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. These women’s stories compel current and future generations of comedians to reflect, adapt, and champion new standards of dignity and respect, paving the way for a truly inclusive comedic landscape.
