The Judge Judy Phenomenon: Laughter at the Expense of Others

The shrill look on her face and thick New York accent spews from her mouth, striking fear in those around her.

The courtroom set-up is simple—those before her bow down to her authority and celebrity. Judith Sheindlin, referred to as TV’s Judge Judy, has been on the air for decades and has become one of the most recognizable figures in Hollywood.

Her most recent case—a burning couch. In an episode of her famed show, defendant Michael Davis was suing next-door neighbor Len Blackman after he had loaned him his couch. The problem—Blackman, after a night of drinking, decided to throw the couch on a fire. Davis was asking for $850 in damages.

Judy’s response: “I do have other things to do,” touting the case was a waste of her time.

It is these stories that are typical of the show, their hilarity more entertaining then the actual ruling. The Judge Judy phenomenon, with thousands of viewers on a daily basis, is largely based on entertainment value. Her caustic behavior is attractive to those who want to “stick it to” the morons that have the guts to be a guest on her show. For a moment it is as if the viewing audience is partaking in Judy’s ribbing.

Truth be told, Americans enjoy reveling in the ridiculousness of other people. There is something comforting in knowing that, perhaps, our lives are not so inane that we sue over a burned couch. Just maybe, we have something better going on.

Whatever the case, Judge Judy has attracted a fierce following despite the often-laughable content of the program.