This debate on the interplay between humour and (im)politeness refers to film talk and is exemplified by comic extracts from the US series “House”. Conversational humour forms may create face-saving and affinity, adding to (solidarity) politeness; and/or face-threat and clash, expressing impoliteness. Impoliteness can be further considered as humour source in its own right, esp. in media entertainment discourse. Also, one utterance may cause distinct assessments by humor targets.