Some scientists have way too much time on their hands. Researchers at the University of Stirling in England blended together 179 different facial aspects of 20 top comedians to come up with the perfect face for comedy.Soft, feminine features, typified by the face of Ricky Gervais, were more likely to make people laugh. According to psychologist Anthony Little, "The characteristics of a feminine face imply that the person may be agreeable and cooperative...Typically masculine facial traits, such as chiseled jaws and high foreheads are regarded as less amusing and their owners are less likely to succeed in a comedy career."
I've actually heard this from stand-up comedians as well. You can't be too conventionally attractive and be successful in comedy. All the painful, taboo-breaking stuff that makes for the best material is easier to take when it's coming from a non-threatening person that you can conceivably relate to.
What does the poster boy for the scientifically funny face Ricky Gervais have to say about all of this? "All these years I assumed my global success as a comedian was down to my acute observations, expert directorial rendering and consummate skills as a performer. Turns out it's because I've got a fat girly face."
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
11-11-2006 @ 6:56PM
Bryce said...
This could explain why I hate Dane Cook.
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