Veteran comedian and political commentator Bill Maher has announced he's stepping away from live stand-up comedy after nearly five decades, citing concerns about performing in today's divisive political atmosphere.
Safety Concerns in Polarized Climate
During Monday's episode of his Club Random podcast, Maher revealed to guest Patton Oswalt that multiple factors influenced his decision to end his 50-year run of live performances. The comedian expressed genuine concern about physical safety while touring in the current political environment.
I feel like it was a great choice because I don't want to be out there in this country in this political atmosphere, Maher stated. I could get shot by the left or the right.
Competitive Landscape and Generational Shift
Maher also addressed the competitive nature of modern comedy, admitting he grew tired of outperforming comedians who were selling more tickets. I just got tired of being twice as funny as people who were selling twice as many tickets as me, he confessed.
The 70-year-old comedian acknowledged that his television presence and age factor into audience preferences. When the audience is 35 to 45, they don't want to see somebody 70, Maher explained, adding that he understands why people prefer comedians from their own generation.
Balanced Political Criticism
Maher, who describes himself as an old school liberal, has consistently criticized both major political parties. During a September episode of his HBO show Real Time, he called for mutual accountability while discussing the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The only way this starts to get better is if both sides admit, 'OK, let's not have this debate about who started it, Maher argued. Let's not debate about who's worse because, plainly, both sides do it now.
The comedian recently faced criticism for dining with former President Donald Trump at the White House, defending his decision on his podcast by noting that Trump actually wants more people around him for a stimulating conversation.
Despite ending his stand-up career, Maher continues to host his television shows and podcasts, stating I didn't need it. I miss it, but that's part of what it is. His 13th HBO comedy special, Bill Maher: Is Anyone Else Seeing This? was recently filmed.
