ABSTRACT
One of the key functions of television is to provide its audiences with entertainment. Among British viewers, being entertained is one of the main reasons given for watching (Gunter et al., 1994). While entertainment is a gratification which can be obtained from drama and factual programmes, it is a feature associated in its purest form with that category of television output called light entertainment. This category includes situation comedies, quiz and game shows, variety and music shows and talk or chat shows. Other special events, family or people shows and cartoons made for adults can also be included.
