Johnny Lever slams modern comedy’s vulgarity: 'If they’re really talented, they should avoid double meanings'

Johnny Lever, a prominent name in Indian comedy for over four decades, has raised concerns over the increasing use of vulgarity and double entendre in today’s entertainment. Speaking to actor and activist Kunickaa Sadanand on her YouTube series, Lever said that comedians today often rely on crass humour rather than clean wit, a shift he attributes to the growing influence of Western media.

“People are freely abusing today because of Hollywood films,” Lever said. “Now our actors and comedians are copying that style. They’ve made it a habit.” He noted how performers today often borrow directly from English-language films, weakening the cultural specificity of Indian humour.

Lever expressed disappointment with the current generation of stand-up comedians. “Most of today’s stand-up content is full of double meanings. But when we were trained in the craft, we were taught never to take that route,” he said. “If we start speaking double meaning, these new guys won’t even be able to stand before us.”

The comedian also challenged younger performers to entertain without relying on cheap jokes. “If they are really talented, I challenge them—say something clean and still make people laugh. That is the real test,” he added. “I’m not saying they’re bad, people are enjoying their content. But I have a family audience. I have to be answerable to that.”

During the conversation, Kunickaa agreed with Lever’s observations, adding that many younger comics today lack fluency in Hindi and seem disconnected from the roots of Indian humour.

Lever also praised his daughter, Jamie Lever, for maintaining the same values in her comedy career. “She does solo shows too and doesn’t rely on vulgarity,” he said.

Interestingly, Johnny Lever recently appeared in Housefull 5, a film known for its reliance on slapstick and innuendo. The contrast wasn’t addressed in the interview, but it highlights the tension between commercial cinema’s demands and Lever’s call for a return to clean comedy.