As a society, we have a certain level of expectation from children’s shows. We anticipate that they will entertain and educate our children while maintaining a wholesome content. However, there have been instances where adult jokes have surfaced in kids shows to the surprise and amusement of the older audience. While it might be inappropriate for young children, adults find it difficult not to snicker at the subtle humor.
One of the classic examples of adult jokes in kids shows is from the popular cartoon series “Spongebob Squarepants.” In one episode, Spongebob and Patrick are playing with a lovely pair of socks, when the latter says, “Don’t drop them.” To which Spongebob replies, “Don’t worry Patrick, I won’t let go of my grip.” Although hilarious to adults, the joke references the stereotype that men have a tight grip on their socks. Something that young children would not comprehend.
Another example of an adult joke is from the famous Disney movie “Aladdin.” In the scene where Genie is introducing himself, he says, “10,000 years will give you such a crick in the neck.” The viewers might not have realized that it was a pun on the word “creek” until Robin William’s sudden change in accent. The joke appealed to adults, as they understood the pun, while children appreciated the humor and the playful character of the genie.
However, not all jokes might be appropriate for young children. The cartoon series “The Powerpuff Girls” featured a character named “Him,” whose effeminate voice, devilish persona, and flamboyant nature suggested that he might be gay. Although the creators denied any intention of making “Him” gay, the portrayal of the character raised concerns about the normalization of LGBTQ+ representation in children’s programs.
Similarly, the young adult website CollegeHumor created a series of videos called “If Harry Potter Was A Bro,” which cleverly incorporated adult humor into the magical world of Harry Potter. While the videos were entertaining for the older audience, parents criticized them for being inappropriate for younger viewers, who might not understand the joke or the reference.
In conclusion, adult jokes in kids shows, if delivered appropriately, can be hilarious and entertaining for the older audience of the show. It adds a layer of humor that children might not understand, creating an inclusive experience for everyone. However, creators need to be careful not to cross the line when incorporating adult humor, as some jokes might not be appropriate for young children’s minds.
