"That Joke Isn't Funny Anymore" is a song by the English rock band the Smiths.

Disparity between literal and figurative meanings in parts of the lyric discourage a precise reading of the song.

[2][3] In 1985, Morrissey disclosed to Melody Maker that the song was a response to journalistic mockery of his songwriting that dwelt "on the unhappy side of life" and to persistent attempts to expose him as a "fake".

The unusual timing of the release may have had an impact on its modest chart position: two non-LP tracks, "How Soon Is Now?"

Rough Trade owner Geoff Travis has said the single was released on Morrissey's insistence: "I said to him 'that's not a good idea' ...and he wouldn't have that and, being me, I said 'fine ...'"[6] Other reasons for its relative lack of commercial success include the absence of new studio material on the B-side, and perceived fan displeasure at the 7" version missing an instrumental coda; it was described by Jack Rabid of Allmusic as the first of the band's singles that "wasn't a complete thrill to buy".

[7] Additionally, the single suffered overall inadequate promotion, and potential exposure was lessened by a last-minute refusal by the band to perform on the UK television show Wogan.