It’s April Fools’ Day. We here at The Urbanist understand division of labor as vital for the creation of vibrant cities. And we know when to stay in our (protected bike) lane. So we’re sticking to the insightful news we do well and leaving the pranks to others.
But our fine city of Seattle has been the brunt of some quality comedy and satire over the years. Here’s a couple of the best. Let this serve as a reminder that Seattle’s got a lot to laugh at when we’re not being too serious about ourselves. And be wary (warier) of what you read today.
Almost Live
Seattle’s early 90’s talk show/sketch comedy produced canned bits that landed solid punches on neighborhood stereotypes. They’re awkward and biting in a way that only a loving local could write. They produced the infamous “Space Needle Collapses” prank for April Fools’ 1989. Today, the skits are mostly seen in the comments sections of Facebook Neighborhood groups to illustrate how the city has gone downhill since such good old days.
The Beaverton
As Canada’s leading disperser of quality castor oil and occasional satire, The Beaverton has dinged Seattle a few times. It’s mostly issues call-outs to our largest figures, taking casual swings at Starbucks or Amazon. But our friends to the north do it best when they stick to their wheelhouse: hockey.
Babylon Bee
The joke is on anyone who believes Babylon Bee is funny. Really just tiki torches and khakis with a Friends laugh track. Moving on.
The Onion
At this point, having been once printed on physical paper, it’s The Old Gray Lady of satirical comedy. In all that time, The Onion perfected one thing better than everyone else. They hit running gags. From Uncle Joe Biden to the quasi-demonic royal child, The Onion can return to the same exhausted vein and find something new to exploit. Which is exactly the theme of their Amazon coverage.
