Meaning: Bill Bixby, an actor known for his roles in television shows such as "The Incredible Hulk" and "My Favorite Martian," expressed his disdain for situation comedies in the quote: "Situation comedies are old-fashioned - they stick to formulas. I resent their music which is old fashioned. I resent the use of a laugh track." This quote highlights Bixby's dissatisfaction with the traditional and formulaic nature of sitcoms, as well as his distaste for their use of music and laugh tracks. In order to fully understand Bixby's perspective, it is necessary to delve into the history and characteristics of situation comedies, as well as the reasons behind his criticisms.

Situation comedies, often referred to as sitcoms, have been a staple of television programming for decades. These shows typically revolve around a recurring set of characters placed in humorous or absurd situations, often set in a familiar environment such as a home, workplace, or social gathering place. The format of sitcoms often adheres to a predictable structure, with recurring themes and storylines that provide a sense of familiarity and comfort to viewers. This adherence to formula, as noted by Bixby, can lead to a perception of being "old-fashioned" as the genre tends to rely on established tropes and comedic devices.

One of the aspects of sitcoms that Bixby takes issue with is their use of music, which he describes as "old fashioned." Traditionally, sitcoms have featured musical scores that complement the comedic timing and tone of the show. These scores often include upbeat and lighthearted tunes that serve to underscore the humor and lightheartedness of the on-screen situations. However, Bixby's criticism suggests that the music used in sitcoms may not align with his artistic sensibilities or may feel dated to him.

Additionally, Bixby expresses resentment towards the use of laugh tracks in sitcoms. Laugh tracks, also known as canned laughter, are pre-recorded audience reactions that are inserted into the audio of a television show to simulate live audience responses. This technique has been a common feature of sitcoms since the early days of television, and it is employed to cue viewers to laugh at specific comedic moments. However, Bixby's criticism of laugh tracks indicates a preference for a more authentic and natural comedic experience, free from the artificial manipulation of audience reactions.

Bixby's comments reflect a broader sentiment within the entertainment industry regarding the evolution of comedic television programming. As television audiences and cultural tastes have evolved, there has been a growing demand for more innovative and unconventional approaches to comedy. This shift has led to the rise of alternative comedic formats, such as mockumentaries, single-camera comedies, and dark comedies, that challenge the traditional sitcom formula.

In conclusion, Bill Bixby's critique of situation comedies sheds light on the perceived limitations and conventions of the genre. His disapproval of their formulaic nature, use of music, and reliance on laugh tracks underscores the changing landscape of comedic television programming and the evolving expectations of audiences. While traditional sitcoms continue to have a dedicated viewership, Bixby's comments serve as a reminder of the need for creativity and originality in the realm of comedy, as well as the ongoing debate surrounding the artistic merits of established television conventions.