Sexual Harassment—a Primetime TV Laughing Matter

Jennifer E. Brummert

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DOI: 10.2190/5FRU-F1PC-D1WV-CMWJ

Abstract

This article focuses on the treatment of sexual harassment by television networks in situation comedies. It contrasts the litigated cause of action under Title VII, with the comedic value of sexual harassment in television screenplays. While the former faces punishment in the form of termination and damages, the latter is rewarded with ratings and royalties. This article explores the Title VII restrictions placed on employers, and discusses the (im)plausibility of placing those same restrictions on television character employers. It finally examines why free speech trumps Title VII in the television arena, but not in the American workplace.

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.