Well, I mean, if a joke or humor is bawdy, it's got to be funny enough to warrant it. You can't just have it bawdy or dirty just for the sake of being that - it's got to be funny.

Betty White’s quote, "Well, I mean, if a joke or humor is bawdy, it's got to be funny enough to warrant it. You can't just have it bawdy or dirty just for the sake of being that - it's got to be funny," emphasizes the importance of substance and timing in humor. White is advocating for quality in comedy, suggesting that bawdy or dirty humor should never be used just to shock or provoke. It must be genuinely funny and well-crafted to be effective. In her view, humor that relies on crude or risqué elements should always have a strong comedic foundation to make it worthwhile.

The quote reflects White’s experience as a seasoned performer who understood the value of wit and timing in humor. She believed that even the most edgy comedy had to be rooted in smart and clever delivery, not just the shock value of using inappropriate or taboo subjects. This perspective is part of what made White’s comedic style so beloved—she could be sharp and edgy without crossing into simply being provocative for its own sake.

Originating from White’s long and successful career in television and comedy, this quote highlights her approach to humor throughout her life. As an actress who starred in iconic shows like The Golden Girls, White was known for her quick wit and ability to deliver both clean and bawdy humor with grace. Her words are a reminder that while humor can explore various subjects, it is ultimately about delivering genuine laughter through thoughtful, entertaining material.

In essence, White’s message is that humor—whether bawdy or otherwise—should never compromise its funny nature. If the punchline or content of a joke is crude, it should still have the wit and charm to make it successful, not just rely on shock value. This standard for comedy is part of what made Betty White a beloved figure in the world of humor, known for delivering laughs without ever sacrificing her comedic integrity.