The Old, Rich, and Eccentric

It seems that the funny TV shows of late have rediscovered this type of role: the moneyed geezer trying to relive the years of his prime by immersing himself in our generation. The fact that he’s wealthy makes hanging out with his young, comparatively poorer friends a goldmine for TV writers. What else would our youth want but to have their fun and misdeeds covered for?

People in shows:
– Pierce Hawthorne from Community
– George Christopher from Bored to Death
– Jay Pritchet from Modern Family

The Clever Douchebag

No one likes a douchebag in real life, most especially if they’re right in front of you. All they have done by being one is surpassing the level of an a-hole. Which is why the clever douchebag makes for an entertaining character: it moves past the dimensions of ignorance and low intelligence and replaces it with a suave, iron-willed, sharp-tongued, slightly understanding douchebag.

People in shows:
– Sterling Archer from Archer
– Master Shake from Aqua Teen Hunger Force
– The Men from Mad Men

The Specially skilled with an obvious fault

This character has been around since someone thought it was a great idea, even before noir became a hit in Hollywood. It just so happens TV writers continue to chance upon more unexampled skill sets with steeper character flaws. From the medical maven with unceasing pain to the experienced officer committing the worst of crimes, audiences can’t decide whether to be envious or to be empathizing.

People in shows:
– Dr. Gregory House from House
– Detective Vic Mackey from The Shield
– Charlie Eppes from Numb3rs