Bill Maher’s Ariana Grande Joke Backfires as Real Time Audience Groans

Bill Maher pushed his comedic boundaries during the latest episode of ‘Real Time With Bill Maher’, and it was clear when one of his jokes about Ariana Grande fell flat.

In his opening monologue on Friday, Maher discussed the bizarre news of the week, eventually shifting his focus to UFOs. He humorously expressed his hope that aliens would arrive to save humanity, stating, “I hope the aliens are here, I do. I hope they’re here and watching us and they’re going to save us,” Maher remarked.

He then referenced the recent release of UFO files by the administration, mentioning reports of strange objects, unusual lights, and a figure with large eyes before making a joke about Grande.

“And, by the way, the administration this week, just a few days ago, maybe yesterday, unleashed a new trove of UFO files. Interesting things in there. Triangular craft, weird lights over an army base, a stick-like figure with large eyes – oh, that was just an Ariana Grande video.”

While the initial joke received laughter and applause from the ‘Real Time’ audience, Maher’s follow-up comment elicited a very different reaction.

“Please, we kid. We kid. Maybe that joke will make her eat something.” This remark was met with groans and audible disapproval from the audience. Maher quickly added, “I’m saying, maybe it will help,” before transitioning to another topic.

These jokes come at a time when Grande is facing significant public scrutiny regarding her appearance. Recently, she announced her withdrawal from the upcoming West End revival of ‘Sunday in the Park with George’, where she was set to star alongside Jonathan Bailey.

Grande has also mentioned the need for a break from her career. Although she hasn’t provided detailed reasons for her hiatus, she stated, “boundaries, they need to be set. Human beings can need a break sometimes.”

Her decision coincides with ongoing discussions among fans and online commentators regarding her appearance in the music video for “Petal.” Grande has not indicated that her break is related to these conversations.

Maher’s comments came during a time when Grande is already under intense public scrutiny. While comedy often involves pushing boundaries, the studio audience’s reaction suggested that Maher may have crossed a line with his joke.

This incident aligns with Maher’s established style on ‘Real Time’, where he frequently critiques celebrities, politicians, and current events in his monologues. However, the audience’s response to his second joke about Grande starkly contrasted with the laughter that greeted the first.

Deadline reported on the audience’s reaction, noting the groans and “awws” that followed Maher’s second comment. He quickly moved on, shifting to a joke about Democrats and Thanksgiving.

For now, Grande seems to be taking a step back from the limelight, while Maher continues his routine of commenting on the latest headlines. This time, however, it appeared that his audience felt the joke may have gone too far.

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