Cringe Histories: Harold Pinter and the Steptoes

This article argues that cringe humour in British television had begun at least by the early 1960s and derived from a theatre history which conventions of Naturalism were modified emergent writers working with European avant-garde motifs. The makes case analysing importance to BBC sitcom Steptoe Son, tracing its form themes back ‘comedy menace’ ‘Theatre Absurd’ emblematised work playwright Harold Pinter. links play made Pinter’s reputation, Birthday Party, dramatic tropes social commentary identified Son other sitcoms elements. analysis not only discusses relationships between different works on stage screen but also pursues some connections drama via networks actors contemporaneous discourses critical commentary. It assesses political stakes as comic form, particularly failure impel activism, places this context repeated broadcast plays episodes over an extended period.