Ep 2. Episode 2

In Season 1 Episode 2 of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, the host continues his satirical take on current events and pressing issues. The episode begins with Oliver discussing the recent controversy surrounding the Miss America pageant, specifically the leaked emails that revealed the harsh criticisms of the contestants' appearances made by pageant executives. Using his signature humor, Oliver comments on the outdated traditions and superficiality of the pageant, while also pointing out its declining viewership and relevance.

Oliver then moves on to a more serious topic: the US government's ongoing surveillance programs. He highlights the various ways in which the government can access and monitor citizens' personal data, such as through metadata collection and the use of national security letters. Oliver points out the hypocrisy of government officials who champion freedom and privacy while simultaneously engaging in these surveillance practices. He also addresses the argument that only those with something to hide should be concerned about government surveillance, pointing out the potential for abuse and error in the system.

The episode then takes a lighter turn as Oliver turns his attention to a bizarre and seemingly pointless trend: the rise of Japanese mascots, or "yuru-kyara." He explores the various mascots and their ridiculous costumes, highlighting their often bizarre and meaningless origins. Oliver cleverly points out the cultural differences between Japan and the Western world, while also poking fun at the absurdity of the trend.

Next, Oliver delves into the topic of the death penalty in the US. He addresses the flaws in the justice system and the potential for wrongful executions, pointing to specific cases where DNA evidence exonerated death row inmates. Oliver also examines the racial disparities in death penalty sentencing, highlighting the disproportionate number of black men sentenced to death. He concludes the segment by calling for an end to the death penalty and the institutions that uphold it.

Finally, the episode ends with a segment on the state of journalism in the US. Oliver addresses the changes in the media landscape, specifically the rise of 24-hour cable news networks. He discusses the ways in which news has shifted from being informative to being entertainment, with biased reporting and sensationalized stories becoming the norm. Oliver also addresses the potential for "news bubbles," where people only consume news that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs. He concludes the episode with a call for viewers to stay informed and seek out reliable sources of news.

Overall, Season 1 Episode 2 of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver offers a humorous yet insightful look at a variety of important issues. From government surveillance to the death penalty to the state of journalism, Oliver tackles each topic with his trademark wit and intelligence. The episode is a testament to Oliver's ability to make complex issues accessible and engaging, while also calling for meaningful action and change.