It's both funny and sad which seem to me to be the two basic ingredients of good comedy.

The quote by Tony Hancock reflects his belief that the essence of good comedy lies in the balance between humor and sadness. He suggests that the most effective comedic moments often emerge when something is both funny and tragic at the same time. This combination creates a unique emotional dynamic that resonates with the audience, as they are torn between laughing and feeling empathy for the situation.

Hancock argues that these two emotions—funny and sad—are the basic ingredients of great comedy because they mirror the complexities of real life. In reality, people experience moments of joy and sorrow simultaneously, and comedy that reflects this duality feels more authentic. By blending humor with a touch of tragedy, comedians can create a deeper connection with their audience, making them laugh while also acknowledging the more somber aspects of life.

This approach is consistent with Tony Hancock's style of comedy, which often combined absurdity with underlying melancholy. His work was marked by a sense of existentialism, where the humor often stemmed from characters grappling with personal flaws or unfortunate circumstances. This balance of comedy and tragedy became a hallmark of his performances, influencing later comedians who sought to explore more nuanced, multi-layered humor.

In essence, Hancock's quote speaks to the power of blending contrasting emotions to create comedy that is not only entertaining but also emotionally resonant. It suggests that the best humor doesn't shy away from sadness, but instead, embraces it, using it as a tool to enrich the comedy and make it more impactful.