Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Season 2 Episode 25 Episode 49
- TV-MA
- August 16, 2015
- 29 min
-
9.3 (638)
John Oliver returns for the 49th episode of Last Week Tonight, tackling a variety of topics from politics to pop culture. In this episode, Oliver takes a deep dive into the recent controversial decision by the Trump administration to repeal net neutrality. He breaks down what net neutrality is, its importance, and how the repeal could potentially negatively impact both consumers and small businesses.
Oliver then shifts gears to discuss the opioid epidemic in America, which has claimed countless lives and continues to wreak havoc on communities across the country. He talks about the role that pharmaceutical companies have played in exacerbating the crisis through their aggressive marketing of highly addictive painkillers. Oliver also highlights some of the innovative solutions that are being implemented to address the epidemic, including harm reduction strategies and alternative pain management methods.
Next, Oliver turns his attention to the 2020 US presidential election and the Democratic candidates who are vying for the nomination. He provides an update on the latest polling data and some of the key issues that are shaping the race, including healthcare, climate change, and income inequality. Oliver also offers some commentary on some of the more controversial moments from recent debates and campaign events.
In a lighter segment, Oliver takes a humorous look at the bizarre world of professional wrestling and the role that it has played in American culture. He explores the history and evolution of the sport, from its origins in carnival sideshows to its current stature as a billion-dollar entertainment industry. Oliver also offers his thoughts on why wrestling continues to be so popular among fans of all ages.
In the final segment of the episode, Oliver discusses the state of journalism in America and the challenges that reporters and news organizations are facing in the current political climate. He talks about the rise of fake news and the erosion of trust in the media, as well as the economic pressures that are leading to the closure of many local and regional newspapers. Oliver also highlights some of the recent efforts to support and strengthen the field of journalism, including nonprofit news organizations and investigative journalism projects.
As always, Oliver delivers a smart and insightful take on the most pressing issues of the day, sprinkled with humor and a healthy dose of cynicism. Tune in for another informative and entertaining episode of Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.