An in-depth analysis of satirical discourse in the Chinese comedy variety show ROCK & ROAST

The Chinese variety show ROCK & ROAST has emerged as a significant cultural phenomenon. Distinguished by its incisive deployment of satirical discourse, the program addresses pressing societal issues while evoking emotional resonance from its audience. This study investigates the pivotal role of satirical discourse in the show, highlighting its capacity to foster social reflection and challenge entrenched norms. While previous research has predominantly focused on humor, this study fills a significant gap by analyzing the role of satire—more pointed and socially critical than humor—in fostering public discourse and societal reflection. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, this study draws on data from five seasons of 'ROCK & ROAST,' employing transcription, thematic categorization, and statistical analysis. The findings reveal four primary thematic categories: injustice and social bias against women (43.75%), satire directed at men (31.25%), critique of workplace phenomena (12.5%), criticisms of social behavior and trends (12.5%). Female comedians often employ a feminist perspective to critique gender inequality, while male performers engage in broader societal commentary through satire. These divergent perspectives enrich the discourse, highlighting the varied ways in which satire articulates and critiques social realities. Furthermore, the study identifies emotional resonance as a central factor driving audience engagement, grounded in shared identities, experiences, and societal pressures, particularly among women and working-class viewers. By examining the multifaceted role of satire in ROCK & ROAST, this study contributes to the fields of sociolinguistics and media studies by exploring how satirical language serves as both an artistic and sociopolitical tool in contemporary Chinese entertainment. This study contributes to the fields of sociolinguistics and media studies by elucidating how satire functions as an artistic and sociopolitical force in contemporary Chinese entertainment.