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Screen & Stage • Series

Bill Maher

Bill Maher is an American comedian, television host, actor and political commentator born in New York City in 1956.

Updated August 1, 20261 min readCited sources

Bill Maher is an American comedian, television host, and political commentator best known for hosting HBO’s *Real Time with Bill Maher* and the earlier *Politically Incorrect*.

What it is

Bill Maher (born William Maher Jr. on January 20, 1956, in New York City) is a stand-up comedian and TV host who has been a fixture in political satire since the 1990s. He began his comedy career in 1979 and gained national fame hosting *Politically Incorrect* from 1993 to 2002. Since 2003, he has hosted *Real Time with Bill Maher* on HBO, where he delivers acerbic commentary on politics, religion, and social issues.

Why it matters

Maher’s shows have shaped American political discourse by blending comedy with pointed critique, reaching audiences across North America including Canada via HBO and wider media. His long-running platform on HBO makes him a consistent voice in public debate, and his podcast *Club Random* (launched 2022) extends his reach.

Key details

Maher was raised in River Vale, New Jersey, and graduated from Cornell University in 1978. He has also worked as an actor, writer, and producer. His Canadian audience follows his work through HBO broadcasts and North American media coverage.

In short

  • Host of HBO’s *Real Time with Bill Maher* since 2003
  • Previously hosted *Politically Incorrect* (1993–2002)
  • Known for sharp political satire and commentary
  • Born in New York City, raised in New Jersey, Cornell graduate
Canadian angle

Bill Maher’s political comedy and commentary have been broadcast and discussed in Canada through HBO and wider North American media coverage, making him a familiar figure to Canadian television audiences.

Quick questions

Who is Bill Maher?
An American comedian, television host, and political commentator best known for *Real Time with Bill Maher*.
What is Bill Maher known for?
Political satire, stand-up comedy, and hosting *Politically Incorrect* and *Real Time with Bill Maher*.
When was Bill Maher born?
January 20, 1956.

Sources

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Maher
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, nationality, occupations, career milestones including Politically Incorrect, Real Time with Bill Maher, and Club Random.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannicahttps://www.britannica.com/biography/Bill-Maher
    Supports: Birth date and place, occupation as comedian and talk-show host, and general biographical overview.
  3. TV Insiderhttps://www.tvinsider.com/people/bill-maher/
    Supports: Raised in River Vale, New Jersey; Cornell University graduation; stand-up career; Politically Incorrect; Real Time with Bill Maher.