In a landscape crowded with comedy shows, the latest installment of "Audiscion" on Rai 2, hosted by Gigi & Ross, fails to make a significant impact. This marks their thirteenth time leading a comedy program on the channel, but the formula appears to be wearing thin. Despite the duo's energetic presence, the show lacks the spark that viewers have come to expect from a comedy series.
Gigi & Ross, known off-screen as Luigi Esposito and Rosario Morra, have been staples of Italian comedy for years. However, in this latest iteration, they are joined by co-host Elisabetta Gregoraci, whose static presence seems to do little to enhance the overall performance. The chemistry among the hosts is essential in comedy, and in this case, it feels somewhat lacking.
The writing is another major point of contention in the review of "Audiscion." With seven credited authors—Antonio Azzalini, Stefano Sarcinelli, Stefano Disegni, Daniele Ceva, Alberto Farina, Francesco Velonà, and Marco Terenzi—one would expect a diverse and engaging script. However, the sketches predominantly consist of caricatured imitations of public figures, including personalities like Sinner, Mattarella, Amadeus, Conti, and Gruber. Critics argue that these portrayals miss the mark, lacking both resemblance and the sharp satirical edge that is crucial for effective comedy.
Even the guest appearances, such as Francesco Pannofino's mundane restaurant gag and Paolo Hendel's reprise of the Carcarlo Pravettoni character, fail to elevate the show's quality. The audience, filling the Rai auditorium in Naples, seems to laugh more out of obligation than genuine amusement, raising questions about the show's ability to connect with viewers.
In contrast, another comedy show, "Comedy match," which airs on Nove, seems to be faring better. Hosted by Katia Follesa, this format pits two teams of comedians against each other in a battle of improvised jokes. With participants including Maria Di Biase, Debora Villa, Marta Zoboli, Andrea Pisani, Scintilla, Federico Basso, and Angelo Pisani, the show thrives on spontaneity. Each episode features nine rounds, with themes ranging from sitcoms and music to cinema and social media, encouraging creativity and quick wit.
While "Comedy match" does manage to deliver some entertaining moments, it is not without its flaws. Critics note that the improvisation can sometimes feel forced, with comedians striving too hard for laughs, leading to moments that fall flat. Yet, the format allows for a more dynamic interaction among the performers, which can be refreshing compared to the scripted nature of "Audiscion."
Both shows, along with others like "Festivallo" on Rai 2 and "Lol - Chi ride è fuori" on Prime Video, highlight the ongoing struggle to find genuinely funny content on television. In recent years, the landscape has become increasingly challenging for comedy creators, as audiences seek out humor that resonates on a deeper level.
Interestingly, the Gialappi with Mago Forest, hosting "Gialappashow" on Nove, have emerged as a more successful alternative, boasting over 800,000 viewers compared to "Audiscion"'s disappointing debut of under 600,000 viewers on May 5, 2025. This stark contrast in viewer engagement suggests that audiences are craving something different, perhaps a return to more innovative and relatable comedy.
The challenges faced by both "Audiscion" and "Comedy match" reflect broader trends in the entertainment industry. As audiences become more discerning, the demand for quality content that genuinely entertains continues to rise. With so many options available, including streaming platforms that offer diverse comedic perspectives, traditional television shows must adapt or risk losing their audience.
As Gigi & Ross continue to host "Audiscion," they may need to rethink their approach to keep up with the changing tastes of viewers. The reliance on caricature and imitation may not be enough to sustain interest in a world where originality is increasingly valued. Meanwhile, as "Comedy match" navigates its own challenges, the competition to capture the audience's attention remains fierce.
The future of comedy on Italian television is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the quest for laughter continues amidst a backdrop of shifting viewer preferences and heightened expectations. As the industry evolves, it will be fascinating to see which shows manage to rise to the occasion and deliver the humor that audiences crave.