On Friday night, Bill Maher used his monologue on Real Time to discuss the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, an event that has sent shockwaves through Washington and ignited discussions about political violence.
“This week has been pretty grim in America, with various forms of violence being debated—political and otherwise,” Maher stated. He recounted how Colorado Representative Lauren Boebert, upon learning of Kirk’s assassination, called for prayers, only to face backlash for her noisy approach. He commented on how “a loud prayer doesn’t necessarily lead to loud outcomes,” adding a critique of the Democrats’ reactions, indicating a disconnect between political actions and public sentiments about violence.
Maher also called out Donald Trump’s remarks following Kirk’s death. He laughed as he recounted Trump’s disregard to the question about uniting the nation, remarking, “His message seems to be all about avoiding healing.”
During the tense roundtable that followed, featuring Ben Shapiro and Tim Alberta, Shapiro noted a concerning statistic: around 42% of Gen Z members believe in responding to speech with violence. This revelation prompted Alberta to express his alarm over how such ideas have gained mainstream acceptance, especially among younger voters.
Maher went further to critique social media, labeling it a “cancer” that exacerbates inequality. He stressed the need for both political parties to acknowledge their roles in fostering divisive narratives instead of pointing fingers exclusively at one another.
When Shapiro cited a report about the shooter’s political leanings, Maher dismissed it, saying, “It’s too soon to know anything for sure. The internet is relentless with misinformation right from the start.”
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot during a discussion at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. The suspected shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, was apprehended after a manhunt confirmed by Trump on Friday.
Maher also reminisced about how Kirk had appeared on his show earlier this year, highlighting how swiftly political conflicts can escalate into tragedies.
The Friday episode included appearances by Charlie Sheen alongside Shapiro and Alberta.
