Bill Maher recently revealed in a chat with Jerry Seinfeld that he plans to stop doing stand-up comedy after this year. The conversation took place on Maher’s Club Random podcast, where Seinfeld was promoting his latest Netflix movie, Unfrosted. Maher expressed his desire to go back to being a pure stand-up without the distractions of movies or shows like Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee. Seinfeld, who is considered one of the purest stand-ups, was surprised by Maher’s revelation but supported his decision.
As Maher disclosed his plans to stop doing stand-up after this year, Seinfeld was taken aback by the news. Maher mentioned that he doesn’t want to make a big announcement but shared that he is planning to do a special for HBO, his 13th, at the end of the year. He emphasized the dedication and effort required to excel in stand-up comedy, comparing it to playing the cello. Maher acknowledged the challenges but expressed his love for stand-up and the joy it brings him.
Despite the demands of his show and other commitments, Maher continued to perform stand-up because of his passion for it. He found joy in the freedom and spontaneity that stand-up offered compared to the constraints of his TV show. Maher credited the audience for keeping him motivated and instilling a sense of accountability in his performances. He joked about the pressure of making people laugh when they paid to see him, likening it to staying in a movie even if it’s bad to get your money’s worth.
Maher entertained the idea of doing live stand-up performances as a special event, allowing him to explore new avenues while stepping back from his traditional routine. Seinfeld supported the notion of trying new formats and options after years of dedicated work in the industry. Maher acknowledged that cutting ties with stand-up comedy after 40 years could be challenging and expressed his openness to changing his mind in the future. Seinfeld’s new film Unfrosted, inspired by the creation of Pop Tarts, premiered on Netflix to positive reviews, showcasing his versatility as a comedic talent.
In conclusion, Bill Maher’s decision to step away from stand-up comedy after this year marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career. Despite his deep love for stand-up, Maher is open to exploring new opportunities and formats while reflecting on his decades-long dedication to the craft. With the support of fellow comedians like Jerry Seinfeld, Maher’s decision to transition away from stand-up signifies a new chapter in his artistic journey and a chance to explore different avenues of expression. As Maher’s final HBO special approaches, fans can anticipate an emotional and memorable farewell from one of the comedy world’s most enduring voices.
