“One of Us”: Examining the Authenticity and Parasocial Relationships of Stand-Up Comedian Podcast Hosts

Abstract

Previous research has provided limited insight into why podcasts hosts are perceived to be authentic and has not examined how characteristics that are seen as being indicative of authenticity can relate to parasocial relationships (PSRs). In this study, a thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 10 podcast users revealed the presence of certain markers of authenticity associated with their favorite hosts. Ordinariness, immediacy, and similarity were viewed as being able to contribute to PSRs by creating a feeling of friendship whilst freedom, spontaneity, imperfection and confessions were viewed as being able to contribute by creating a feeling of knowing the hosts.