One of the reasons I voted for callbacks is because I'm a bit lost when it comes to the definition, and especially how it applies beyond comedy. I've defaulted to the opinion that we just call it foreshadowing in dramatic work, but maybe I'm missing something.

Anybody have insights into how a callback differs from a running gag, catchphrase, fan service (John McClane's just gotta say "Yippee-ki-yay, motherfucker" at some point), or stunt casting (like Scott Baio replacing Henry Winkler as the Bluth's lawyer on Arrested Development)?

Ken, I'll do a full post with my take on callbacks by the end of the week. Hopefully that will be of some help in understanding the concept.