Bill Maher Gets Big Reaction From ‘Real Time’ Crowd With Mitch McConnell, Will Smith Jabs

Bill Maher took a shot at Senator Mitch McConnell (Republican from Kentucky) and actor Will Smith on his "Real Time" show, eliciting strong reactions from the studio audience. During his commentary on the week's major story, executions, Maher mentioned the lethal injection method used in the United States. He noted the failed lethal injection of Christa Pike, who was revived to be executed again. This led to a notable reaction from the audience, who gasped, laughed, and applauded.

McConnell's health issues were a notable topic, as he had been absent from the public eye since falling and entering a brief unconscious state in June. His office released minimal information about his recovery, igniting speculation about his ability to return to work. In July, McConnell addressed his health, sharing that he had suffered a "mild case of pneumonia," but had been discharged from the hospital.

Despite his return to work, he appeared to struggle while performing his duties, needing assistance to cast a vote in September.

Maher also criticized the Pentagon's plan to livestream the execution of Fort Hood shooter Nidal Malik Hasan. Pete Hegseth, a Pentagon spokesman, advocated for the execution to be broadcasted so that people could witness it. Maher remarked that Hegseth desired the live stream to take place, allowing viewers to observe the proceedings.

Finally, during his monologue, Will Smith experienced an unexpected jab from Maher. Smith referenced Maher's controversial Oscars slap incident, where the comedian struck Chris Rock over a joke at Jada Pinkett Smith's expense. The audience responded with the loudest round of applause and cheers of the night, prompting Maher to assure his audience that he was delivering "gentle good humor."