The paper deals with the problem of translating humor, particularly, sketch show humor. Perception of translated sketch show is considered in relation to the phenomenon of cognitive dissonance. The author presents empirical data of a psycholinguistic experiment conducted with advanced students of English on the one hand, and zero English competence students, on the other. The analysis of recipients’ responses has proven that the perception of humorous elements can significantly vary depending on whether the comedy show is watched in the original language or in translation. Successful translation of such elements plays a crucial role in such a perception.