Ep 21. August 18, 2019

John Oliver returns for another informative and entertaining episode of Last Week Tonight, tackling issues and stories that have been making headlines in America and around the world. In this particular episode, which aired on August 18, 2019, Oliver dives into a range of topics, from corporate mergers and healthcare to the ongoing crisis in Venezuela.

As always, Oliver's unique brand of humor and wit are on full display, as he takes aim at powerful corporations and politicians who seem more interested in protecting their own interests than those of the people they serve. He also delves into the nitty-gritty of topics like the Affordable Care Act, shedding light on some of the complexities and contradictions of the law that many people may not be aware of.

One of the most memorable segments of the episode is Oliver's exploration of the crisis in Venezuela. With his characteristic mix of empathy and humor, he highlights the dire situation facing the country's people, who are struggling with food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and political instability. Oliver also takes aim at the role that the United States has played in exacerbating the crisis, calling attention to the sanctions and other policies that have only made things worse for ordinary Venezuelans.

Another highlight of the episode is Oliver's coverage of corporate mergers, which have been happening at an alarming rate in recent years. He breaks down some of the biggest mergers that have happened in the past decade, such as the acquisition of Time Warner by AT&T, and explains how these mergers can have far-reaching consequences for consumers and the economy as a whole.

Throughout the episode, Oliver also takes the time to critique the media's coverage of certain stories, pointing out where they've missed important details or failed to hold public officials accountable. He also brings attention to some lesser-known news stories that deserve more attention, such as the fight for climate justice in India.

One thing that sets Last Week Tonight apart from other news shows is its dedication to in-depth reporting and extensive research. Oliver and his team of writers spend countless hours poring over information and data to ensure that their segments are not only entertaining but also accurate and informative. This dedication is on full display in this episode, as Oliver tackles complex issues like the healthcare system and corporate politics with a level of nuance and detail that is truly impressive.

Overall, the August 18, 2019 episode of Last Week Tonight is a must-watch for anyone looking for a smart and insightful take on the news of the day. With his razor-sharp wit and deep knowledge of the issues, John Oliver once again proves himself to be one of the most insightful and entertaining voices in the world of news and politics.