The situation comedy has remained a popular genre for television audiences since the 1950's. Historically this genre followed the basic format of half-hour, humour, and the weekly problem (Feurer, 1987). One of NBC's hottest comedy's, Will & Grace, (Richard, 1998) makes its own history following this traditional format. The programming genre of today has developed with societies changing values and beliefs (Feurer & Fiske, 1987). Cultural ideologies like same sex marriage and homosexuality are expressed as normalises on Will & Grace. .
Will & Grace stretches the boundaries of existing social limitations by challenging social constraints. Similarly, Archie Bunker, a domestic comedy genre focused on societies' struggle with racism and bigotry (Barker, 2000). This essay will examine how controversial ideologies narrated in Will & Grace is becoming socially acceptable or at least tolerated. I will attempt to explain how innovation or lack of innovation of the series, production techniques, and the main themes influence the social acceptance of Will & Grace. However, before this analysis continues a brief introduction into the general characters of Will & Grace.
Who's Who of Will & Grace.
Eric McCormack (Will Trueman) is a successful homosexual New York lawyer, in his mid thirties, looking for a committed relationship. In fact, if the writers didn't keep reminding you that he's gay you might forget altogether. Will is the boy next door type with confidence and acceptance of his sexuality (Richard). This is a fresh perspective to this sitcom. Considering most gay characters' struggle with their orientation as in the X rated Television series Queer as Folk. Kohan and Mutchnick fashion Will after one of society's stereotypes of a gay male, he is attractive, well dressed and often mistaken for straight.
Debra Messing (Grace Adler) is beautiful with wild crazy, red hair and the sleek slender body of a fashion model.