Real Time with Bill Maher

Matthew Perry, famed for his role in 'Friends' and author of a candid memoir on addiction, shares his journey through addiction and survival with poignant humor. CNN anchor Laura Coates discusses the evolving landscape of politics and social media's role in shaping public opinion. Social psychologist Jonathan Haidt emphasizes the mental health crisis in Gen Z, attributing it to social media pressures. The trio navigates personal growth, accountability, and the absurdities of modern society, blending humor with critical insights.

In this engaging discussion, guests tackle the urgent challenge of climate change, highlighting innovative energy solutions and Colorado's renewable goals. They delve into the complexities of social media regulation and free speech, particularly in light of Twitter's shifts. The conversation shifts to the political landscape, focusing on how Democrats can reclaim working-class support in the South. Additionally, they reflect on recent tech layoffs and critiquing leadership strategies in Silicon Valley, illustrating the intersection of technology and politics.

Governor Jared Polis of Colorado shares insights on effective governance and his hands-off COVID-19 approach. Congressman Ro Khanna discusses technology policy and the evolving Democratic landscape. They dive into recent election shifts, the role of parental rights, and the balancing act of representation in politics. The conversation also touches on the therapeutic uses of mushrooms for mental health and the challenges of political comebacks. Together, they explore the essence of democracy and voter engagement in these turbulent times.

This week’s guests include Richard Reeves, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and author of "Of Boys and Men," alongside journalist Maggie Haberman and Fareed Zakaria. The conversation dives deep into modern masculinity, highlighting the unique challenges boys face today. They discuss the shifting dynamics in education where boys struggle and girls excel. The trio also tackles the complexities of voter sentiments, particularly among white women, and the impact of platforms like TikTok on political engagement, all with a sharp blend of humor and insightful commentary.

Delve into the controversy surrounding 'toxic masculinity' and its potential to hinder meaningful conversations. Explore the risks of political figures returning to power amid legal troubles, and how this could threaten democracy. The conversation also critiques the American primary system, questioning its support for extreme candidates and pondering if a shift back to leader-selected nominees could foster better political discourse.

Quentin Tarantino, an acclaimed filmmaker, shares insights from his new book "Cinema Speculation," reflecting on his love for film and childhood theater memories. Gillian Tett delves into the intersection of technology, media, and politics, discussing the role of misinformation in today's society. Yuval Noah Harari analyzes human history and the future, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change. The conversation also critiques youth culture and societal absurdities, blending humor with critical commentary on contemporary challenges.

Dive into a lively discussion on the significance of clarity in children's literature and its impact on young readers. Explore the distinct experiences of writing versus filmmaking, along with the joys of collaboration in storytelling. The conversation takes a serious turn, addressing ethical concerns related to animal treatment and societal norms. Finally, the guests reflect on potential future societal shifts, emphasizing the importance of political engagement and responsible leadership to combat rising authoritarianism.

Benjamin Netanyahu, former Prime Minister of Israel and author, discusses the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian relations, especially in light of recent anti-Semitic remarks. Michael Smerconish adds a layer of political commentary on the implications of misinformation in today’s leadership. Neil deGrasse Tyson emphasizes the need for public trust in science amidst nuclear threats and underscores the delicate balance between belief and skepticism in scientific advancements. Their dialogue cleverly intertwines humor with serious global issues.

Dive into the intriguing world of Mars research as scientists uncover the secrets of underground microbes and their impact on the planet's climate history. The conversation also touches on the role of the media in shaping public perception, especially when it comes to the health of political candidates. With a blend of science and politics, this discussion sheds light on how they intersect and influence each other.

Chris Christie, the former Republican governor of New Jersey and ABC News political commentator, brings his sharp insights to the discussion. The conversation delves into Joe Biden's decision to pardon marijuana convictions amidst global crises. The group also tackles the evolution of trust in media, contrasting past icons with today's polarized landscape. Parental expectations in college and the dangers of political division in America are examined, highlighting how societal changes impact both personal lives and broader discourse.