What This Comedian Said Will Shock You

Bill Maher first gained significant fame as the host of Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher, which aired from 1993 to 2002. Blending comedy with political debate, the show featured a mix of celebrities, politicians, and pundits discussing controversial topics. Despite its success, Politically Incorrect was canceled after Maher made contentious remarks about the 9/11 hijackers, stating they were not “cowards” for sacrificing their lives, a comment many perceived as unpatriotic. The controversy highlighted Maher’s tendency to provoke outrage by challenging mainstream narratives, a trait that has defined his career. After Politically Incorrect, Maher launched Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO in 2003, which remains his flagship program. On Real Time, Maher tackles current events with humor and seriousness, interviewing guests from across the political spectrum. The show is known for its “New Rules” segment, where Maher delivers satirical commentary on cultural and political absurdities. His approach often sparks debate, as Maher unapologetically criticizes both liberals and conservatives, positioning himself as a “rationalist” willing to offend anyone.

Maher has authored several books, including When You Ride Alone, You Ride with Bin Laden and The New New Rules: A Funny Look at How Everybody but Me Has Their Head Up Their Ass. Maher’s career has been marked by numerous controversies, mainly stemming from his willingness to address taboo subjects. He has been an outspoken critic of organized religion, famously dubbing it a “neurological disorder” and producing the 2008 documentary Religulous, which explores the dangers of religious dogma. While many applaud his secularism and advocacy for free speech, others accuse him of insensitivity and condescension. In 2017, during an interview on Real Time, Maher jokingly referred to himself using a racial slur in response to a guest’s comment. The backlash was immediate and intense, with figures from across the political spectrum condemning the remark as offensive and inappropriate. While Maher quickly apologized, the incident reignited debates about the boundaries of comedy, free speech, and racial sensitivity, showing his propensity to push social limits in ways that sometimes alienate audiences.

His critiques of the #MeToo movement and “woke” culture have also sparked heated debates. Maher has expressed concerns about what he perceives as overreach in the #MeToo movement, particularly regarding its potential to conflate minor offenses with serious abuses. While he has consistently supported holding powerful individuals accountable for misconduct, he has criticized what he calls a “mob mentality” in canceling people for less severe transgressions. Similarly, his disdain for “woke” culture stems from his belief that it stifles free expression and promotes ideological conformity. He frequently critiques language policing and cultural appropriation debates, arguing that they detract from more substantive issues.

Despite his friction with progressives on these topics, Maher remains a vocal advocate for many liberal causes, including marijuana legalization, environmental sustainability, and LGBTQ+ rights. His advocacy has led to criticism from conservatives, who view his support for such policies as emblematic of a broader progressive agenda. For example, Maher has lambasted Republicans for their denial of climate change and refusal to embrace green energy initiatives, often framing their positions as reckless and shortsighted. His advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly same-sex marriage and anti-discrimination measures, has further cemented his image as a staunch supporter of social liberalism.