Comedian and talk show host Bill Maher is known for his ranting attacks on you-know-who. Just last week, for example, he accepted an invitation to dine with Trump at the White House. This shocking development has caused a lot of concern, largely due to Maher’s long track record of being a loud critic of Trump’s policies and rhetoric.
This incredible dinner took place under the beautiful chandeliers of the White House. This legendary venue has played host to some of the biggest names in entertainment over the decades. Post-event, Maher reported that Trump was “good humoured,” “generous of spirit,” “without malice,” and “gracious and measured.” These comments are a far cry from Maher’s past condemnation of Trump, where he derided the former president in a vitriolic cardinal tone.
Maher had only good things to say following the dinner. Yet, his decision to play nice with Trump has drawn fierce criticism from a lot of smart, influential folks. As to Matthews, his many fans and fellow commentators expressed outrage. So they crucified Maher for legitimizing their god Trump. Political analyst James Carville was among those who criticized Maher’s choice, suggesting that it undermined Maher’s previously established stance against Trump.
Maher has been taking a part, as the host of HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher,” where he interviews politicians and advocates and debates the issues. He’s been on Gayle King’s CBS show recently promoting his new Broadway play about Edward R. Murrow. The discussion immediately turned to his dinner with Trump.
Entertainment—in a larger cultural context, the entertainment industry has been a place where many celebrities have taken stands against—and often directly attacked—Trump and his supporters. Ellen DeGeneres just relocated there, improving her already flickering cache with the clickety set. On the other hand, Rosie O’Donnell notoriously vowed to move to Ireland if Trump became president and she definitely followed through.
Adding to the discourse, George Clooney wrote an op-ed for The New York Times urging Americans to reconsider their support for Joe Biden. In response to Trump’s mockery of him, where Trump referred to Clooney as “a second-rate movie ‘star’ and failed political pundit,” Clooney remarked, “My job is not to please the president of the United States.”
The diverging paths of these two celebrities demonstrates an increasing schism in the entertainment capital over how closely they should associate with political figures. Larry David’s contribution to the conversation was to write The New York Times’ most-read satire of the year. His humor remains the best lens through which to see the absurdities of political engagement.
The recent incident involving Maher raises important questions about celebrity involvement in politics. How can these meetings open the door to constructive dialogue, and not just act as a stage for public condemnation? Maher’s choice to break bread with Trump speaks volumes about the complex and often disorienting intersection of contemporary politics and entertainment. This connection is not static in our increasingly polarized society.
“Just for starters,” said Maher, “he laughs!” – Emma Brockes