Real Time with Bill Maher

Lawrence Wilkerson, former chief of staff to Colin Powell, shares insights on US foreign policy and the implications of the Trump era. Chris Evans, famed for his role as Captain America, discusses his civic engagement platform and the importance of political participation. The conversation dives into election integrity issues and the complexities of COVID-19 discussions, including the need for addressing systemic racism in cannabis reform. With humor, the guests reflect on parenting challenges during the pandemic and critique the political landscape.

Jim Carrey, the versatile actor and comedian, shares his insights on the intersection of art and politics during turbulent times. Kerry Washington brings a unique perspective on race and identity, linking them to contemporary social movements. Thomas Chatterton Williams tackles the complexities of free speech amidst cancel culture, while Bari Weiss emphasizes the importance of open dialogue. Together, they navigate the absurdities of current events, offering both humor and serious commentary on the challenges posed by the pandemic and societal divisions.

John Bolton, former National Security Advisor, shares riveting insights from his time in the Trump administration, discussing foreign interference in U.S. elections and the ramifications of misinformation. Kara Swisher, a tech and media expert, navigates the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on political campaigns, spotlighting Biden's strategies amidst health crises. The conversation also delves into privacy concerns with contact tracing and the importance of strong leadership, all wrapped in witty commentary on today's societal issues.

Susan Rice, a former U.S. Ambassador and National Security Advisor, shares insights from her memoir 'Tough Love' while addressing pressing issues like systemic racism and pandemic preparedness. Malcolm Nance, a counterterrorism expert, discusses national security challenges, especially in this contentious political climate. Andrew Sullivan contributes with sharp political commentary, emphasizing the need for democratic reforms, particularly around D.C. statehood and the evolving landscape of LGBTQ+ rights following recent Supreme Court decisions.

Radley Balko, an opinion journalist and policing expert, joins Dr. Dariush Mozaffarian, a leading cardiologist and public health advocate, for a lively discussion. They tackle the complexities of police reform amidst the COVID-19 crisis, questioning the current strategies and emphasizing community-focused solutions. The conversation shifts to the obesity epidemic, where Mozaffarian highlights the urgent need for better nutrition and government action. Larry Wilmore and Matt Welch add comedic insights on Hollywood's cultural responses and the bizarre behaviors observed during the pandemic.

In this engaging discussion, rapper and activist Killer Mike delves into the vital role of strategic political activism and the transition from protest to voting energy. Former FBI Assistant Director Frank Figliuzzi offers insight into the complexities of law enforcement amidst political tensions. Their conversation also touches on societal reflections on racial injustice and pandemic impacts, while Rosa Brooks emphasizes the importance of community accountability in policing reforms. The humor peppered throughout critiques the absurdities of these pressing issues.

Tom Colicchio, renowned chef and advocate for the restaurant industry, discusses the pandemic's impact on eateries, emphasizing their role as community hubs. Ian Bremmer, a political scientist, provides sharp insights into the political narratives surrounding COVID-19, scrutinizing leadership responses and public perceptions. Soledad O'Brien, a respected journalist, highlights the intersection of social media and race, underscoring the necessity for accountability and empathy in a polarized world. They mix humor with serious commentary, reflecting on societal dynamics during these uncertain times.

Thomas Friedman, a Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist known for his insights on globalization, joins Dr. Cate Shanahan, a family physician and diet expert, and Michael Moore, an Academy Award-winning filmmaker and political activist. The trio humorously critiques pandemic responses and highlights the importance of reliable information in navigating health crises. Dr. Shanahan discusses the shocking stats on Americans' metabolic health and the dangers of modern fats. They also tackle the political landscape as the election approaches, urging voter participation and community support.

Justin Amash, a Libertarian Congressman from Michigan running for president, discusses the challenges of third-party politics in a polarized landscape. Amy Holmes delves into the critique of government responses to the pandemic and the economic fallout. The trio, including Dan Savage, humorously navigates topics like relationships during quarantine and the absurdities of political protests, all while emphasizing personal responsibility in navigating these unprecedented times.

This conversation features Eric Holder, former U.S. Attorney General, and Bret Stephens, a prominent New York Times columnist known for his conservative perspectives. They tackle the intersection of politics and public health during the pandemic, exploring election integrity concerns and the media's handling of political scandals. Holder discusses marijuana legalization's potential impact on younger voters, while Stephens adds humor to Biden's economic strategies, critiquing the polarized political landscape. The two reflect on the urgent need for reevaluation in health and economic policies.