Larry King Now Season 1 Episode 43 Bill Maher, Part 1

In Larry King Now season 1 episode 43, viewers are treated to an engaging and thought-provoking discussion between legendary broadcaster Larry King and award-winning comedian and political commentator Bill Maher. This episode is the first of two installments featuring Maher, in which he speaks candidly about topics such as politics, religion, and his own controversial statements.

King kicks off the interview by asking Maher about his upbringing and how it may have influenced his political views. Maher shares that he was raised in a Catholic household, attended Catholic school, and was initially quite conservative. However, he says he began to question his religion and his political beliefs in college, leading him to form the more liberal, anti-establishment views he is known for today.

The conversation then turns to Maher's views on the current political climate in the United States. He is quick to point out what he sees as the failures of both major political parties, but reserves some of his harshest criticisms for the Republican Party. Maher describes the current GOP as the "party of whiteness," pointing out their lack of diversity and their efforts to disenfranchise minority voters.

The discussion then turns to Maher's own controversial statements. King asks him about a comment he made following the death of former Apple CEO Steve Jobs, where Maher suggested that Americans were engaging in "phony grieving" over someone they didn't actually know. Maher stands by his comment, arguing that Americans have become too obsessed with their gadgets and that Jobs was "just a businessman."

Later in the episode, King and Maher discuss religion. Maher is well-known for his criticisms of all religions, but particularly of Islam. He argues that Islam is a uniquely dangerous religion because of its extremist elements, and that it is not bigoted or intolerant to point this out. King challenges Maher on his views, suggesting that his criticisms may be unfairly painting the religion as a whole, but Maher remains steadfast in his position.

Overall, Larry King Now season 1 episode 43 featuring Bill Maher, Part 1 is an engaging and thought-provoking conversation between two reputable figures in journalism and entertainment. This episode provides insight into Maher's political and religious views, as well as his sometimes controversial statements. Viewers are sure to come away from the episode with a better understanding of Maher's perspective on the world and the issues currently facing the United States.