running gag
Joke that returns
A running gag is a joke or comic element that recurs throughout a performance, episode, or series, gaining humor through repetition and variation.
The comedy often builds as audiences anticipate the gag's return: The running gag about his inability to remember names lasted the entire season.
Running gags appear in sitcoms, sketch comedy, films, and stand-up routines.
- inside jokeHumor requiring shared history
- jokeHumorous statement seeking laughter
- callbackFollow-up audition invitation
- call backContact someone again
- catchphraseSignature line of words
recurring bit · shtick · routine · comedic timing · humor · escalation · leitmotif · funny · audience engagement · repetition · comedy · long con · slapstick · rule of three · sketch · humorous dialogue · comic relief · banana peel