Quote Originally Posted by SteveinMN View Post
TV is rife with caricature. "The Big Bang Theory" gets its laughs at the expense of the social super-awkwardness of a bunch of extremely intelligent nerds. And, of course, their next-door neighbor is a pretty blonde (that always happens in real life...). Joey Tribbiani on "Friends" was a caricature. Offensive? Apparently most people didn't think so. Lots of standup comics -- Chris Rock, Jeff Foxworthy, etc. -- have made their livings and generated huge followings poking at their own "tribe".

Caricature does not have to be offensive, especially if the portrayal involves positive aspects of the person or group being caricatured. I cannot accept redfox's equaling the VW ad's portrayal of Jamaicans with the American blackface stereotype of the early 20th century.
I agree. But it does not mean people don't take offense. Otherwise phrases like "gets its laughs at the expense of" would not apply.

It's not for me to decide what other people should and shouldn't take offense against. I find it interesting seeing people take on this role, though.