Craig Ferguson & Britney

In case you missed this- Craig Ferguson has decided not to make jokes about Britney Spears (at least not right now, concerning her shaved head, multiple trips to rehab, etc.). Here's when he announced it on his show last month:

This diatribe soliloquy monologue lasted over twelve minutes- a pretty good chunk of the show to devote to a non-comedic bit. I wonder what the suits at CBS thought about it. Apparently Ferguson doesn't care:

I applaud the man for taking a stance. It's just kind of a bummer that the reason behind it is simply Craig's past troubles with alcoholism. It's slightly reminiscent of celebrities who suddenly devote a ton of time toward a certain cause, simply because it has struck close to home (Christopher Reeves, etc.)- what about the diseases and charities that haven't been lucky enough to have a famous/wealthy/influential spokesperson?

I totally agree with his sentiment, though, and I wish more comedians would take the high road when it comes to making fun of people who are obviously fighting difficult battles (particularly with mentally illness). Sure, Michael Jackson willingly accepted the "King of Pop" label, and joking about his goofy behavior was funny to a point, but the guy clearly has some serious issues. I think Jay Leno has made a Michael Jackson joke in every monologue he's ever delivered. Wow, what crack team of writers came up with that joke about Michael and young boys? Brilliant!

I remember when Dave Letterman quit making O.J. jokes. I recall reading a quote from him- something along the lines of "I don't think double murder is funny." Really, Dave? You made jokes about the Menendez brothers for a year straight! Norm McDonald supposedly lost his Weekend Update gig on SNL because he wouldn't lay off Simpson, whom exec Don Ohlmeyer considered a close friend. I agree that those jokes were tasteless. I believe strongly in freedom of speech, and I wouldn't suggest that we prevent someone from making those jokes, but we can always turn the channel, or hold the applause. (Although the jokes about O.J.'s vow to find the real killer still make me chuckle.)

Making fun of people at the bottom of the barrel is the cheapest form of comedy, and the least rewarding, for both the comedian and the audience. Here's hoping Ferguson inspires others to quit kicking people when they're down.