Real Time with Bill Maher returns tonight on HBO, and viewers can expect fireworks on the panel thanks to a particularly newsworthy guest: Representative Nancy Mace of South Carolina. Her presence on Bill Maher’s panel is certain to spark strong reactions and just as likely to create some viral moments for Real Time.
Mace, a Republican who has drawn both praise and criticism for her blunt style, has been in the headlines recently over controversial remarks directed at Rep. Ilhan Omar. Mace also had a lot to say about political discourse and liberals in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's murder. It will be interesting to see how hard Maher pushes Mace on the racially-charged comments she's directed at her fellow lawmakers.
On the topic of Kirk, Mace was also very outspoken regarding ABC's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel Live!. The congresswoman argued Kimmel made an insensitive joke at Kirk's expense and deserved to be cancelled. With ABC now reversing course and bringing Kimmel back, Maher may well press Mace on where she stands now. Does she view the reversal as an overreach by Disney, or does she believe the decision reflects the public’s support for free speech? That line of questioning would put Mace in a tricky position, given that Maher has defended comedians’ rights to speak freely for decades.
It’s also notable that Mace would likely never set foot on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, or Late Night with Seth Meyers. Those shows have little patience for conservative voices like hers, often making figures such as Mace into the punchline. Real Time has increasingly become the one place in late-night television where Republicans and right-leaning guests can sit down for an actual discussion, even if that discussion turns confrontational. Maher’s willingness to engage such guests is one of the show’s defining traits, and it’s what makes tonight’s episode especially intriguing.
Mace won’t be the only voice at the table. Joining her on the panel is Michael Smerconish, the SiriusXM and CNN host known for his willingness to challenge both parties. Smerconish brings a centrist perspective that could clash with Mace's right-wing views.
The show starts with Maher interviewing Aidan Walker, known for his research on internet culture. Walker specializes in memes, their history, and significance. He could shed some light on how the meme culture ties into Kirk's assassination, based on information released about the alleged shooter.
Real Time with Bill Maher airs tonight at 10:00 p.m. ET on HBO and streams on HBO Max.