There’s something magical about CBS’ Ghosts. It’s funny, heartwarming, and surprisingly clever—like a perfectly brewed cup of British tea (with a splash of American sitcom chaos). Before the Season 5 premiere, I decided to binge-watch every episode, and let me tell you—it was worth every ghostly giggle.
But what really keeps Ghosts fans coming back? The recurring jokes. You know—the ones that hit harder each time because you’re in on the joke now. These 13 running gags aren’t just funny; they’re the heartbeat of the show.
Let’s dive into the hauntingly hilarious world of Ghosts and relive the best recurring jokes that make this sitcom so boo-tifully binge-worthy.
1. Trevor’s Missing Pants: The Ultimate Ghost Mystery
Who knew that a pantless investment banker from the ‘90s would become one of TV’s most beloved characters? Trevor’s lack of pants isn’t just a sight gag—it’s a symbol of his carefree, slightly sleazy lifestyle that ended mid-party.
Every time he complains about the cold, or someone comments on his “business casual below the waist,” fans can’t help but lose it. It’s the perfect mix of ridiculous and iconic.
2. Hetty’s Relentless Judgment of Modern Life
Hetty Woodstone, the prim-and-proper lady of the house, might be the most quotable ghost in the mansion. Whether she’s horrified by Alexa, offended by texting abbreviations, or disgusted by “women in trousers,” her constant confusion about modern norms is comedy gold.
It’s Downton Abbey meets Brooklyn Nine-Nine—and Hetty’s sharp tongue is the silver spoon that stirs the pot.
3. Isaac’s Never-Ending Struggle With His Feelings for Nigel
Isaac’s closeted romance with Nigel—the British officer who once died under his command—is one of Ghosts’ most tender and hilarious storylines.
Every awkward glance, flustered denial, and ghostly flirtation adds layers to Isaac’s character while giving fans endless memes. It’s heartfelt, it’s funny, and it’s a masterclass in slow-burn comedy.
4. Thorfinn’s Obsession With Lightning
Ah, Thorfinn—the Viking who loves war, fish, and lightning. His boisterous personality and random thunder-related outbursts are pure comedic brilliance.
Whenever a storm hits, you can bet he’ll yell, “THOR SMITE THEM!” or take credit for every lightning strike. It’s chaotic energy personified.
5. Pete’s Arrows and Eternal Optimism
Poor Pete—forever the friendly camp counselor with an arrow through his neck. His sunny disposition and endless cheerfulness make his grim situation surprisingly uplifting.
Whether he’s teaching team-building exercises or offering unsolicited advice, Pete reminds us that even in death, positivity rules.
6. Alberta’s Murder Mystery (That Never Ends)
Alberta’s ongoing investigation into her own death is one of Ghosts’ juiciest and funniest subplots. Every time she drops a new clue—or dramatically accuses someone—you can feel the energy spike.
Her sass, her confidence, and her diva-level drama keep the audience hooked. It’s Clue, but make it fabulous.
7. Sasappis’ Sarcastic Commentary on Everything
Sasappis (or “Sass”) is the ghostly embodiment of dry humor. His commentary cuts through the chaos like a laser beam of snark.
He’s the one who’ll roast everyone in the room while barely lifting an eyebrow—and somehow still be the most relatable one there. His running gags about storytelling and romance are low-key hilarious.
8. Flower’s Hippie Energy (And Forgetfulness)
Flower, the free-spirited hippie ghost, is the definition of chaos wrapped in peace signs. Her constant confusion, memory lapses, and random drug references always deliver laughs.
Whenever she says something that trails off into nonsense, you can’t help but smile. She’s like that one friend who’s always in their own world—but you love them for it.
9. The Basement Ghosts’ Eternal Grumpiness
The basement ghosts don’t get much screen time, but when they do, they steal the show. Their collective misery, dim lighting, and sarcastic remarks are a running joke on their own.
They’re like a ghostly version of that one department at work that hates everyone—but you secretly root for them anyway.
10. The “Ghost Rules” Moments
Every ghost fan knows this: the show’s “ghost logic” is both hilarious and weirdly consistent. From who can move objects to how hauntings work, the characters’ constant debate over “ghost rules” is one of the best meta-jokes in the show.
Every time someone says, “Wait, we can do that?” you know something absurdly funny is about to happen.
11. Jay’s Unseen Conversations
Jay, the only living person who can’t see the ghosts, delivers some of the show’s funniest physical comedy moments. Watching him talk to thin air while trying to act normal? Priceless.
The recurring gag of him misunderstanding the ghosts’ antics—like cooking mishaps or ghostly pranks—never gets old.
12. Hetty’s “Possession” Addiction
There’s a unique joy in watching Hetty discover the power of possessing the living. Every time she takes control of someone’s body, chaos follows.
Whether she’s tasting food for the first time in centuries or trying to drive a car (terribly), her glee and lack of restraint turn each possession scene into comedy gold.
13. The Woodstone Mansion Drama
The mansion itself has become a character—creaky, haunted, and full of secrets. The ghosts’ constant squabbles over space, decor, or “who owns which room” are a running gag that gives every episode texture.
It’s like a supernatural version of Big Brother, but with more lace, swords, and unfinished business.
Why These Jokes Work So Well
You might wonder—why do these jokes never get old? Simple: they evolve. Ghosts doesn’t recycle humor; it builds on it. Each gag reveals something deeper about the characters. Trevor’s pants aren’t just a punchline—they’re part of his identity. Hetty’s confusion isn’t just funny—it’s emotional growth in disguise.
That’s what makes Ghosts special. It’s comedy with a heartbeat.
The Secret Behind CBS’ Ghosts’ Charm
What really makes the show shine is its balance between humor and heart. The writers never use jokes just for laughs; they use them to connect. Every recurring gag feels earned, every callback feels like an inside joke between the show and its audience.
It’s that cozy familiarity—the feeling that you’re “in” on the joke—that keeps fans loyal season after season.
A Binge-Worthy Haunting
If you haven’t already, now’s the perfect time to binge Ghosts before Season 5. Watching those recurring jokes develop over time gives you a deeper appreciation for just how cleverly written the show is.
From the first “pants joke” to the latest thunderous Thorfinn outburst, Ghosts proves that laughter truly is eternal.
Looking Ahead to Season 5
With Season 5 on the horizon, fans can’t wait to see which running jokes return—and which new ones will join the party.
Will Hetty finally embrace technology? Will Trevor ever get his pants back? Will Isaac and Nigel finally define their ghostly relationship?
Whatever happens, one thing’s for sure: the afterlife has never been funnier.
Conclusion
CBS’ Ghosts isn’t just a sitcom—it’s a hauntingly brilliant study in character-driven humor. Its recurring jokes aren’t repetitive; they’re the threads that stitch the show’s ghostly tapestry together.
After binge-watching every episode, I can confidently say: these 13 recurring jokes aren’t just funny—they’re timeless.
So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for another season of laughter from beyond the grave.
FAQs
1. Where can I watch CBS’ Ghosts?
You can stream Ghosts on Paramount+ or catch it on CBS during its scheduled broadcasts.
2. Is Ghosts based on another show?
Yes, it’s based on the British sitcom Ghosts—but the U.S. version has its own unique charm and characters.
3. Will there be a Season 6 of Ghosts?
While CBS hasn’t confirmed it yet, the show’s growing fanbase makes a renewal highly likely.
4. Which Ghosts character is the most popular?
Fan favorites often include Trevor (for his humor), Hetty (for her sass), and Isaac (for his touching character arc).
5. Why do fans love Ghosts so much?
Because it’s not just funny—it’s heartfelt. The mix of clever writing, lovable characters, and recurring jokes makes it one of TV’s most comforting comedies.
