Repetition is funny

A Surprise TV Star Embraces His Geeky Side, NYT, by Susan Stewart, 12/04/2006

Technically, Mr. Oka, who has played a number of modest roles in television
sitcoms, said he had learned from the form how to create funny characters by
repeating particular gestures. “Repetition is funny because it’s a character
tag,” he said.

In Hiro’s case the tag is a stiff-armed victory salute, accompanied by an
exultant shout.

“Part of the comedy is he really believes in what he does, Mr. Oka said.
“As long as that point of view’s in there, you’ll always have that comedy,
grounded in truth.”