The Chaser crew have stirred controversy again with last week's skit about the Make a Wish Foundation (see bottom of post for footage). Most of the media have been after the comedy group, who have gained a lot of enemies with their high profile pranks. While no journalist said outright the show should be axed, they quoted a lot of people who did.
Michael Idato was the only journalist in the Sydney Morning Herald to say that the show shouldn't be cut though, the argument was a bit half-hearted. He argues for an ultimatum, either the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), the public television channel, stand by the show or scrap it. Not very strident.
There are good reasons the show should not be scrapped and it's not just about free speech. Firstly, it's a comedy show, so even if the joke was in poor taste we hope that they don't repeat it. Secondly, it would be stupid to remove a generally funny and high rating show from the air for one lapse in judgement. It is only going to frighten away other creative maverick performers from the box. Lastly, Australia whose media is so skewered to the right needs these irreverent pranksters to show a different perspective. This time their judgement was wrong, but no more wrong than many other news services or politicians who walk away careers intact. Remember Tampa. Remember the 'children overboard'. Remember all the heinous things Alan Jones has said...I didn't think so.
Okay Oz, you've smacked these guys on the wrist. Now let them get on with sticking it to us. We need it.
