I think it is fair to say that it is not a ‘fake news show’, but it can be argued that it is a ‘fake news show’.
Years ago I saw a production of King Lear in which the Fool (which would have been a more accurate reference than “Clown”; they’re two different types) was the Angriest Man In The World. Very interesting character choice, which illuminated a lot of his dialogue and pointed up his role (not to mention his general ineffectiveness) in the king’s court. So yeah, I think the comparison is apt.
“You madmen! I joke because the only other option is to weep!”