'Gravity' co-creator defends dark humour

The co-creator of Gravity has defended the show's dark humour.

The Starz comedy centres on members of a support group who have all attempted to commit suicide.

However, Eric Shaffer told TV Guide: "There are enough people out there who aren't afraid of their own humanity and rally around truth-tellers.

"So a sensitive subject like this, if it's treated with honesty and integrity and compassion, can also be funny. Humour can be a gateway to recovery from tragedy and help us deal with it."

Supermodel Rachel Hunter, who plays Shawna, added: "I really think there's a lot of [suicide] around. You can't ignore the fact. I'm sure some people will be sensitive about it, but at the same time it's important to address it. A lot of things aren't hidden anymore and this has been around for a long time."

Gravity premieres tonight at 10.30pm on Starz.