Lords of the Air: A Cultural Analysis of the Bulgarian TV Show Gosporadi na Efira

Abstract

This article explores the trajectory of one of the most popular comedy shows in Bulgaria, using a cultural-historical analysis approach. While Gospodari na Efira started as the Bulgarian version of an Italian news parody show, it assumed its own trajectory to become a distinct amalgamation of social satire, political humor and investigative journalism. The show's formula for success can be linked to its status of an institution, earning legitimation through the trust of audiences at a time when other institutions in Bulgaria were failing to fulfill their responsibilities.