Masculinities in the US Hangout Sitcom

Masculinities in the US Hangout Sitcom explores how four sitcoms mediate the relationship between neoliberalism and masculinities, examining social and economic concerns of young, straight, mostly white twentysomethings in major US cities. It provides an insightful contribution to work on television sitcoms and neoliberalism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 194 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Masculinities in the US Hangout Sitcom delves into the intricate interplay between neoliberalism and masculinities, shedding light on how four iconic sitcoms – Friends, How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory, and New Girl – navigate this complex relationship. In the realm of Friends, for instance, the character of Ross Geller, portrayed by David Schwimmer, is often portrayed as a perpetual worrier, grappling with various social and economic anxieties. This book argues that the men featured in Friends and similar shows that revolve around young, straight, predominantly white twentysomethings in major US cities are plagued by a multitude of social and economic concerns regarding their position in society. To explore these shows in depth, the author employs a multi-faceted analytical approach, encompassing conjunctural analysis, historiographical method, and critical discourse analysis. This comprehensive analysis uncovers a wide range of topics explored in these sitcoms, spanning from sexuality to homosociality, from race to nationality.

This book makes a significant contribution to the field of television sitcom studies and neoliberalism in culture and society. It serves as an invaluable resource for upper-level undergraduates, post-graduates, and researchers alike, spanning disciplines such as television and screen studies, critical studies on men and masculinities, and humor studies. By delving into the complexities of masculinities within the context of US hangout sitcoms, this book offers valuable insights into the broader societal dynamics and cultural shifts that shape contemporary masculinity.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032426211