Bill Maher Returns to ‘Real Time’ Following Writers Strike Controversy
Bill Maher has made his return to HBO’s “Real Time” following the recent controversy surrounding the writers strike. Although he did not directly address the backlash, he expressed his appreciation for his staff members and the Writers Guild of America during Friday’s episode of his political talk show.
Maher began by thanking his brilliant staff, writers, and non-writers who worked tirelessly to ensure the show could go on despite the strike. He also expressed gratitude to the union members who expedited the paperwork to get the show back on the air quickly.
His comments came just before starting a panel discussion with Sam Harris, host of the “Making Sense” podcast, and Mary Katharine Ham, author and co-host of the “Getting Hammered” podcast.
The 21st season of “Real Time” premiered in January but went on hiatus when the Writers Guild of America strike began in May. The show typically airs 35 weekly episodes and runs through November.
In September, Maher announced his decision to return to work and stop participating in the strike. However, after facing backlash from the industry, he reversed course and delayed resuming his show, citing the return of the WGA and studios to the negotiating table.
With the resolution of the writers strike earlier this week, HBO announced that “Real Time” would be back on the air. The new episode featured a one-on-one interview with Florida governor and presidential hopeful Ron DeSantis, who had recently participated in the second Republican primary debate.
Maher’s return to “Real Time” marks the end of a challenging period for the show and its host. Despite the controversy, he is back and ready to continue his politically charged discussions with guests from all walks of life.