Sitcom’s cyclical/ repeated patterns are classic conventions that have endeared audiences for decades. They are the catchphrases, running gags, and character mannerisms that are used time and time again throughout a series. Audiences will come to expect them and look forward to the payoff. These patterns often come to define the characters within the show.
Repetition provides familiarity for the sitcom genre. The sitcom is designed as a distraction, an escape from the severity and unpredictable nature of daily life. Its purport, alleviate stress with a good laugh. To facilitate this, sitcoms had to provide for a level of predictability, a level of safety. Though suspense and misdirection exists within any sitcom’s plot, there always are these expected gags and conventions to keep such stresses in check.
The Nanny basically built itself upon using cyclical themes and gags.
Though it is my favorite, it was no big surprise as to what was going to happen in any given episode. Fran would flirt with Mr. Sheffield, Niles the butler and CC the business partner would biker and insult each other, and the
kids would be getting into some form of mischief. The show was highly predictable, but that was the beauty of it. You knew what was going to happen, and you looked forward to it every time.
Pictures from:
http://azrol28.blogspot.com/2010/04/fran-drescher-nanny-1993-1999.html
http://entertainment.ca.msn.com/tv/gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=22632952&page=9
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