The role of humor in infotainment: the case of the program Extremamente Desagradável

the case of the program Extremamente Desagradável

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34629/cpublica.894

Keywords:

infotainment, humorous programs, social and political criticism

Abstract

The present article analyzes the role of humor as a communicational practice within the context of infotainment, focusing on the radio program Extremamente Desagradável, hosted by Joana Marques. The investigation explores how humor is used to transform information into entertainment, examining the predominant discursive formats, the current topics addressed, and the resources employed to engage the audience. Through a semiotic and content analysis of selected episodes, the study reveals that satire, parody and sarcasm are the primary discursive mechanisms used to deconstruct social and political narratives, making them more accessible and conducive to critical reflection. The explored themes include public figures, political speeches, media controversies, and cultural phenomena, strategically selected to amplify the program’s social resonance. The study concludes that humor, by transcending its playful function, acts as a vehicle for education and social mobilization, influencing public perception and fostering debate around contemporary issues.

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Author Biography

  • Sofia Pereira, Escola Superior de Educação e Ciências Sociais do Politécnico de Leiria

    Licenciada em Línguas e Literaturas Clássicas e Portuguesa, mestre em Investigação e Ensino da Literatura Portuguesa e detentora de um Curso de Especialização Avançada em Literatura Portuguesa pela Universidade de Coimbra. Profissional na área das Ciências Sociais e Humanas, com um percurso consolidado de especialização nas práticas artísticas e culturais. Autora de diversos artigos publicados em revistas e jornais digitais, abordando temáticas relacionadas com a leitura, a cultura, o lazer e o entretenimento. Atualmente, frequenta o Mestrado em Comunicação e Media na Escola Superior de Educação e Ciências Sociais do Politécnico de Leiria, e encontra-se a desenvolver a sua investigação no domínio da comunicação política.

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Published

2025-06-30

How to Cite

The role of humor in infotainment: the case of the program Extremamente Desagradável: the case of the program Extremamente Desagradável. (2025). Comunicação Pública, 20(38). https://doi.org/10.34629/cpublica.894