POM Wonderful v. Coca-Cola

John talks about the Indian election, Pom Wonderful and talks with the former NSA Director General Keith Alexander.

Capital Punishment

John talks about the recent issues of the death penalty, François Hollande and the rising issues happening in Brunei.

Climate Change Denial

John talks about Eurovision, Ukraine and Russia's relations and interviews Bill Nye about Climate Change.

The Right to Be Forgotten

John talks about the product recall going on at General Motors, the EU Court of Justice "Right to be Forgotten" ruling and updates us on how the Indian election is going with help from Fareed Zakaria.

Net Neutrality

John talks about the rise of the far-right political parties in Europe, the Ukrainian election, Afghanistan, Net Neutrality, Australia's hard-line right-wing Prime Minister Tony Abbott and the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee.

FIFA and the World Cup

John talks about California Chrome and the Belmont Stakes, FIFA and the 2014 World Cup, and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Immigration Reform

John talks about US Immigration and interviews Professor Stephen Hawking.

Dr. Oz

John talks about Iraq, Antarctica tourism and Dr. Oz's "Miracle Drug".

Burwell v. Hobby Lobby

John Oliver sheds light on recent Supreme Court cases and discusses gay rights in Uganda with activist Pepe Julian Onziema.

Income and Wealth Inequality

John talks about modern American income inequality, Warren G. Harding's love letters and President Obama's "Day In The Life" tour.

Incarceration in the United States

John talks about the Gaza crisis, the decay of American prisons and the gambling addiction problem in Singapore.

Nuclear Weapons and the United States

John talks about human rights violations in the Middle East, nuclear disarmament and Russia's science satellite that lost communication.

Native Advertising

John talks about Uganda's anti-gay laws, the CIA's recent report on their use of torture, the New York Port Authority, Argentina's default on debt and native advertising.

Payday Loans

John talks about the return of US military actions in Iraq, replacing all passwords due to a global security breach and the terrible practices of the Payday Loan industry.

Shooting of Michael Brown and Police Militarization

Focuses on the shooting of Michael Brown and police militarization in Ferguson, MO. John also discusses the topic of equal pay for equal work.

Student Debt

John talks about ISIS and student loan debt. Musical group A Great Big World make a special appearance.

Scottish Independence Referendum

John talks about the NFL's decision on Ray Rice's contract, the international response to ISIS, Scotland's separation from the United Kingdom and Twitter hashtags that are being misused by corporations.

United States Embargo Against Cuba, Miss America 2015

John covers the results of the Scottish referendum that took place the week before and explains why the policy of United States having embargo against Cuba doesn't make sense . The main story focuses on the Miss America pageant and their scholarships to women. John explains how outdated and absurd the requirements for the contestants are and to illustrate these problems, stages his own pageant with the help of a guest star - Kathy Griffin.

Drones

John discusses U.S. military drones and the Kansas state budget shortfall. Also, Narendra Modi, the Prime Minster of India visited New York and did some classic New York things.

Civil Forfeiture

Main story: how desperate the American law enforcement is to make money out of everyone by using the process called the "civil asset forfeiture," and how it would make for a weird episode of "Law and Order." Plus, John wants to host the 2022 Winter Olympics and how is Columbus Day still a thing.

Military Translators

Translators who have aided the U.S. Military in Afghanistan and Iraq are in great danger in their home countries, but red tape is making it impossible for many of them to leave. John Oliver interviews FNU Mohammad, one translator who made it out. Plus, since cameras aren’t allowed in the Supreme Court discussions, most coverage of the important cases looks like garbage. John fixes that problem with real animals and fake paws.

Sugar

John Oliver talks about a Russian submarine in Sweden, ebola in New York, added sugar in food, Rob Ford's brother and interviews Jane Goodall.

State Legislatures and ALEC

While midterm coverage is largely focused on the parts of Congress that do very little, vital (and bizarre) midterm elections are going unexamined. State legislators pass a lot of bills, and some of that efficiency is thanks to a group called ALEC that writes legislation for them. It’s as shady as it sounds!

The Lottery

The Lottery: State lotteries claim to be good for education and the general wellbeing of citizens. But are they? (Spoiler alert: No.) Also, there is a cannon that shoots salmon over dams. It’s awesome. Check it out.

Marketing to Doctors

John Oliver discusses the growing issues of pharmaceutical companies marketing directly to and through doctors. Also, since RadioShack has filed for bankruptcy, John has created a farewell message for them. Plus, the online sessions by Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa to address the public aren't going too well.

Tobacco

Thanks to tobacco industry regulations and marketing restrictions in the U.S., smoking rates have dropped dramatically. John Oliver explains how tobacco companies are keeping their business strong overseas and how Phillip Morris International in particular is employing some unethical legal practices while suing some of the world's poorest countries. Plus, we've noticed that the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue still exists but can’t quite figure out why.

Elected Judges

The vast majority of US judges are elected, forcing many judges to pander to the electorate and accept campaign money in order to keep their jobs. This seems slightly troubling... The UK's Labour Party has painted a campaign van pink in an attempt to attract women voters. We are glad they didn't keep going with that strategy.

Infrastructure

America's crumbling infrastructure: It's not a sexy problem, but it is a scary one.

U.S. Territories

A set of Supreme Court decisions made over 100 years ago has left U.S. territories without meaningful representation. That’s weird, right? Plus, daylight saving time doesn’t actually benefit anyone. Strangely, it’s still a thing!

The NCAA

The NCAA doesn’t pay athletes because they consider them amateurs. The NCAA considers them amateurs because they don’t get paid.

Municipal Violations

If you have money, committing a municipal violation may pose you a minor inconvenience. If you don’t, it can ruin your life. Also, the New Hampshire legislature refused to make the red-tailed hawk the official raptor of their state... so Last Week Tonight made it the official raptor of the show.

Government Surveillance

There are very few government checks on what America’s sweeping surveillance programs are capable of doing. John Oliver sits down with Edward Snowden to discuss the NSA, the balance between privacy and security, and dick-pics.

The IRS

Nobody likes the IRS. But recent budget and staff cuts have made it increasingly difficult for the department to do its very important job. Don’t take our word for it. Ask Michael Bolton.

Patents

For inventors, patents are an essential protection against theft. But when patent trolls abuse the system by stockpiling patents and threatening lawsuits, businesses are forced to shell out tons of money. Also, CNN produced an actual doomsday video to broadcast when the world is ending and it’s incredibly dull. We've enlisted Martin Sheen to help make humanity’s final moments happier!

Fashion

John explores the concept of changing and cheap fashion and some of the ugliest truths of the manufacturing process.

Standardized Testing

American students face a ridiculous amount of testing. John Oliver explains how standardized tests impact school funding, the achievement gap and how often the kids are expected to throw up while taking one.

Paid Family Leave

Many American companies do not offer paid leave after the birth of a child, which means they probably shouldn’t run sappy Mother’s Day ads. Also, the Japanese have some unhealthy obsession with mascots and John proposes to adopt some of that culture in the U.S. government agencies as well.

Chickens

John Oliver explains how chicken farming can be unfair, punishing, and inhumane. And not just for the chickens!

FIFA II

After the arrests of numerous top officials, John Oliver decided to give an update on the state of FIFA. Also, Thailand's ignorance about the world's history involving Hitler might require some re-education.

Bail

John Oliver explains why America’s bail system is better for the reality TV industry than it is for the justice system.

Torture

The US Senate Torture Report revealed horrifying details of America's interrogation program. Helen Mirren will fill you in. Plus, information about the 2015 European Games and the Canadian Senate expenses scandal.

The Internet

Online harassment is a major problem, but it’s rarely prosecuted. If only we’d been warned about this in the early days of the internet.

Transgender Rights

This week’s gay rights victory was historic, but the transgender community still faces staggering challenges. John Oliver focuses on the “T” in “LGBT."

Stadiums

Cities spend massive amounts of public money on privately-owned stadiums. Cities issue tax-exempt municipal bonds that — wait, don’t fall asleep!

Food Waste

Producers, sellers, and consumers waste tons of food. John Oliver discusses the shocking amount of food we don’t eat.

Mandatory Minimum Sentencing Laws

Mandatory minimums require fixed prison sentences for certain crimes. John Oliver explains why we treat some turkeys better than most low-level offenders.

District of Columbia

Washington DC experiences taxation without representation. It's also missing from rhyming state songs. John Oliver and a group of singing children fix one of these problems. Plus, a sex scandal involving the Chairman of the British House of Lords.

Sex Education

Sex education varies widely between school districts, leaving many teens without comprehensive information. We made a video that covers what some schools are too embarrassed to teach.

Church

John discusses predatory churches and televangelism, and how the U.S. tax law allows them to get away with almost anything. Plus, the raising of the American flag in Cuba, the redesign of New Zealand's flag, and President Harding's illegitimate child.

LGBT Discrimination

This year’s gay marriage ruling was a milestone, but LGBT discrimination is still surprisingly legal. John Oliver explains why we need a federal anti-discrimination law. Plus, the rising tensions on the border between North and South Korea, and why Vladimir Putin has started a war on food.

Public Defenders

The Miranda warning includes the right to a public defender. It doesn’t include the fact that public defenders are highly overworked and grossly underpaid. Plus, a Michigan state legislature scandal, Guatemala's unusual election, and the longevity of Queen Elizabeth II.

Migrants and Refugees

Millions of migrants seeking asylum in Europe face hostility, racism, and red tape. John Oliver does one admittedly tiny thing for one of them. Plus Pope's visit to the U.S., the unsavory practices of Volkswagen car manufacturer, and some shocking allegations about the activities of former British PM David Cameron.

Mental Health

John discusses Russia's involvement in Syria, the U.N. General Assembly, and the problems with the national system for treating mental illness. Plus, why creating a Yelp-like app for rating other people seems like a bad idea.

North Dakota

North Dakota is known for being polite, but perhaps they’ve been a little too hospitable to oil companies. Plus, the mess atop of FIFA's leadership and the connection between Toyota and ISIS.

Canada

Canada is about to have a major election. John Oliver enlists Mike Myers, a beaver, and a moose to give voters some advice. Plus, the unpopularity of the Mexican president Enrique Peña Nieto and the habit of American politicians to misquote historical figures.

Medicaid Gap

John Oliver looks at the upcoming local state elections, the results of which could affect the lives of millions of Americans that are looking for Medicaid assistance. Plus, the 'peace talks' held in Vienna, Austria concerning the war in Syria gather nearly 20 countries, but not a single representative from Syria itself. And how Kenny G could help de-escalate the tension between China and its neighbors in South China Sea.

Prisoner Re-entry

John Oliver discusses problems that prisoners face when re-entering the society after they're released from prison. A quick interview with Bilal Chatman shines a light on one such case. Plus, a law proposed in the United Kingdom advocates for a mass surveillance of citizens' online activities, how Department of Defense is paying huge sums of money to professional sports teams to honor veterans during their events, and Washington Redskins file a lawsuit to defend their poorly chosen trademark name by naming other terrible examples.

Daily Fantasy Sports

John talks about the recent Paris attacks, China's Singles Day, the Koh-i-Noor diamond and Daily Fantasy Sports.

Refugees & Pennies

John reflects on the aftermath of Paris attacks and how it affects refugees worldwide. Plus, he questions the usefulness of the U.S. penny, since minting the coins costs more than they're actually worth.

Voting

John talks about the late Antonin Scalia's love of the Letter of the Law, Chipotle's food safety problems, how Voter IDs laws should be applied to those who write them, and New Zealand's economic development minister Steven Joyce.

Abortion Laws

John talks about the South Carolina Republican primary, the Supreme Court vacancy and abortion, which theoretically is legal in the U.S., but some states make it practically inaccessible. Plus, how is Hollywood whitewashing still a thing?

Donald Trump

John talks about the Egyptian president and economic crisis, the Guantanamo Bay shutdown and Donald Trump.

Special Districts

Special districts spend more public money than all city governments combined. That's odd considering most of us don't know they exist.

Encryption

Strong encryption poses problems for law enforcement, is weakening it worth the risks it presents? It's…complicated.

Border Wall

Donald Drumpf wants to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border. Is his plan feasible?

Congressional Fundraising

Lawmakers have to raise money to keep their jobs, but a surprising amount of their job now consists of raising money. John Oliver sits down with Congressman Steve Israel to discuss the costs of political spending.

Credit Reports

Credit reports play a surprisingly large role in our lives, but even more surprising is how often they contain critical mistakes. John Oliver helps credit agencies see why this is a problem.

Lead

Lead poisoning is a national problem. If only lawmakers were as concerned as the puppets on Sesame Street.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is suffering a massive debt crisis. Lin-Manuel Miranda joins John Oliver to call for relief.

Scientific Studies

John Oliver on Sticking to the Facts: Media outlets often report new findings from scientific studies, but how many are true?

911

John Oliver on 911 Reliability: Things you never want to hear: there are no guarantees when you call 911. Emergency call centers are in desperate need of funding and new technology, so “no guarantees” is the unfortunate reality.

Primaries and Caucuses

Last Week Tonight Tackles U.S. Primaries and Caucuses: The United States selection process for presidential nominees is convoluted — to say the least. Nevertheless, John Oliver reminds Americans that the "middle of the game" is the worst possible time to change the rules.

Debt Buyers

John Oliver Takes On Debt Buyers: Companies that purchase debt on the cheap will aggressively collect on it. 'Last Week Tonight’ took a hands-on approach to addressing this issue.

Retirement Plans

John Oliver Covers Ins and Outs of Retirement Plans: Saving for retirement means navigating a potential minefield of high fees and bad advice - Last Week Tonight is here to help.

Brexit

John Oliver on “Brexiting” from the EU: There might be an innate British desire to diss Europe, but Last Week Tonight lays out exactly why it’s a mistake to leave the EU.

Doping

John talks about the aftermath of the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom and doping in sports with the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio on the horizon.

Republican National Convention

John talks about the disastrous Republican National Convention in Cleveland, where politicians were mostly talking about their feelings equating them to facts. Plus, Hillary Clinton's VP pick, the appointment of Boris Johnson as Britain's Foreign Secretary, the resignation of Roger Ailes from FOX and the unauthorized use of songs in political campaigns.

Democratic National Convention

John covers the rocky Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia. Plus, the military coup in Turkey and its aftermath, the voter ID laws targeting the minorities and how are tanning beds still a thing.

Journalism

John Oliver has some bad news about the state of the industry that gives us our news. Plus, the coverage of the Opening Ceremony of Rio Olympics.

Auto Lending

Auto lenders can steer vulnerable people into crushing debt. Keegan-Michael Key and Bob Balaban help John Oliver show exactly how.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are privately run, publicly funded, and irregularly regulated. John Oliver explores why they aren’t at all like pizzerias.

Scandals

Taking a walk down memory lane, 'Last Week Tonight' assesses Donald Trump's vs. Hillary Clinton's scandals.

Police Accountability

John Oliver discusses the systems in place to investigate and hold police officers accountable for misconduct.

Guantánamo

John Oliver examines the legal and moral issues surrounding the military prison at Guantánamo Bay.

Third Parties

Third party candidates want to be serious contenders, so John Oliver considers them seriously as potential presidents.

Opioids

John Oliver discusses the extent and root of the nation’s epidemic of opioid addiction.

School Segregation

Public schools are increasingly divided by race and class. John Oliver discusses the troubling trend towards school resegregation.

Multilevel Marketing

Multilevel marketing companies claim to be legitimate businesses, but some seems awfully pyramid shaped, and that's a problem.

President-Elect Trump

The presidential race has been a hell of a ride. ‘Last Week Tonight’ closes out the election and Season 3 with a bang.

Trump vs. Truth

Donald Trump spreads a lot of false information thanks to his daily consumption of morning cable news. If only we could sneak some facts into the president’s media diet.

Putin

Vladimir Putin is known as a ruthless leader and master manipulator. John Oliver enlists a group of singing dancers to explain that to Donald Trump.

Obamacare

Congressional Republicans could soon vote to repeal Obamacare. John Oliver explores why their replacement plans are similar to a thong.

Dalai Lama

Tibetan Buddhists have suffered deep persecution by the Chinese government. John Oliver sits down with the Dalai Lama to discuss China, the conditions in Tibet, and horse milk.

American Health Care Act

The Republican health care bill could leave many Americans without affordable coverage. Last Week Tonight's catheter cowboy returns to morning cable news to explain that to Donald Trump.

Federal Budget

Donald Trump's federal budget plan proposes large funding cuts with largely negative consequences. John Oliver examines the troubling priorities of the new administration.

Marijuana

Under federal law, even legal marijuana is illegal. John Oliver explains why conflicting drug laws pose serious problems.

Gerrymandering

Lawmakers often reshape voting districts to shift the balance of political power. That's unfair to voters, even those of us with questionable judgment.

French Elections

The presidential election in France could determine the political future of Europe. John Oliver visits an excessively French bistro to deliver an urgent message to voters.

Ivanka & Jared

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner hold an incredible amount of political power. That's troubling considering their incredibly small amount of political experience.

Net Neutrality II

Equal access to online information is once again under serious threat. John Oliver encourages internet commenters to voice their displeasure to the FCC by visiting www.gofccyourself.com.

Dialysis

For-profit dialysis companies often maximize their profits at the expense of their patients. John Oliver explores why a medical clinic is nothing like a Taco Bell.

Stupid Watergate

John Oliver discusses the shocking magnitude and potential impact of the latest revelations surrounding the Russia investigation.

Paris Agreement

Donald Trump plans to withdraw the United States from the Paris agreement on climate change. That's bad news for anyone who happens to live on this planet.

Brexit II

In the wake of a divisive election, the UK will begin the process of leaving the European Union. John Oliver and an intergalactic space lord propose a plan.

Coal

We’ve heard a lot of talk about coal miners in the last year, but what are the real issues surrounding coal? John Oliver and a giant squirrel look into it.

Vaccines

The benefits of vaccines far outweigh the minuscule risks, but some parents still question their safety. John Oliver discusses why some people may still feel uncertainty about childhood vaccinations.

Sinclair Broadcast Group

Sinclair Broadcast Group is the largest owner of local TV stations in the country. That's alarming considering that they often inject political views into local news.

Alex Jones

Alex Jones is known for pushing conspiracy theories, but he also spends a lot of time promoting his own products. John Oliver and a “doctor” “from” M.I.T. test out his marketing strategy.

Border Patrol

Donald Trump's plan to hire more Border Patrol agents could lead to more corruption and misconduct. If only their recruitment ads were designed to attract the most suitable applicants.

North Korea

As nuclear tensions continue to escalate between the United States and North Korea, John Oliver enlists "Weird Al" Yankovic to perform some accordion-based diplomacy.

Nuclear Waste

Nuclear waste poses a serious threat to public health if it's not stored in a safe place. John Oliver explains why the United States desperately needs to build a metaphorical toilet for all that waste.

Joe Arpaio

Donald Trump issued his first presidential pardon to the last person who should get one. John Oliver discusses the troubling record of former Arizona sheriff Joe Arpaio.

Corporate Consolidation

Big businesses are getting even bigger thanks to a rise in corporate mergers. John Oliver explains why that could make you want to physically destroy your cable box.

Forensic Science

Forensic science used in criminal trials can be surprisingly unscientific. Maybe a new television procedural could help change the public perception.

Confederacy

Confederate symbols are still celebrated despite the ugly history they symbolize. John Oliver suggests some representations of southern pride that involve less racism and more Stephen Colbert.

Equifax

John Oliver discusses the massive impact of the cybersecurity breach at Equifax and their massively misguided attempts to mitigate the damage.

Floods

John Oliver explains why our federal system for financing flood recovery perpetuates a pattern of destruction and why you should never offer a tortilla chip to a seagull.

Economic Development

State and local governments offer large financial incentives to attract employers to their part of the country. John Oliver explains what communities get, or often don't get, in return.

The Trump Presidency

One year after the presidential election, John Oliver discusses what we've learned so far and enlists our catheter cowboy to teach Donald Trump what he hasn't.

Trump vs. The World

America's reputation is being damaged by its own president. John Oliver, several dinosaurs, and the NYC Gay Men's Chorus remind the world that our country is...complicated.

Italian Election

Italy is in the throes of a turbulent race to elect a new prime minister. John Oliver discusses the colorful contenders and introduces an equally ridiculous candidate.

NRA TV

The NRA's streaming lifestyle network aims to boost gun sales, often by using an ominous tone that would make just about anything sound terrifying...including muffins.

Cryptocurrencies

Digital currencies are generating a lot of excitement. John Oliver enlists Keegan-Michael Key to get potential investors equally excited about the concept of caution.

Mike Pence

John Oliver can't help but say nice things about the Vice President's rabbit, Marlon Bundo. Last Week Tonight even wrote a children's book about him.

Immigration Courts

America’s dysfunctional immigration court system forces many children to appear in court alone. That’s as ridiculous in real life as it would be on a courtroom television show.

Crisis Pregnancy Centers

Crisis pregnancy centers deceptively steer woman away from abortion. They can be started way too easily by religious groups like, for instance, a late night talk show’s megachurch.

Corporate Taxes

Many of America’s largest corporations shift a surprising portion of their profits overseas to avoid paying taxes. Even more surprisingly, that’s a legal thing to do.

Iran Deal

Donald Trump could soon dismantle the agreement designed to curb the Iranian nuclear program. Our catheter cowboy will do his best to keep that from happening.

Rudy Giuliani

Rudy Giuliani is new to Trump’s legal team, but not to public controversy. Last Week Tonight examines his turbulent record in the wake of his recent political upsets.

Venezuela

John Oliver discusses the devastating economic crisis in Venezuela and enlists the help of a large bird who bears a striking resemblance to Wilmer Valderrama.

Drug Rehabilitation Clinics

Other segments: Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, proposed 2018 North Korea-United States summit

Guardianship

It’s alarmingly easy for a total stranger to gain total control over the life of a senior citizen. We enlisted a group of celebrities to offer a warning about predatory behavior...in a legal guardian or a hippo.

Stupid Watergate II

John Oliver explains how the president and his allies are going full O. J. in order to undermine the investigation of Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Xi Jinping

Chinese president Xi Jinping is amassing an alarming amount of political power. If only his propaganda videos made the idea of unrestricted authority seem as troubling as the concept of singing children.

Mexican Elections

Mexico is on the verge of a major election. John Oliver discusses some things we should know about the races and one thing we should not know about Santa Claus.

Gene Editing

Scientists are developing new ways to alter the genetic code of living organisms. John Oliver explores the risks, rewards, and wolf-related hazards of gene editing.

Workplace Sexual Harassment

With a national dialogue underway about sexual harassment in the workplace, John Oliver sits down with Anita Hill to discuss the recent response to a not-so-recent problem.

Prosecutors

John Oliver explains how prosecutors use, or in some cases misuse, their power within our criminal justice system and why it’s important to know whether or not your district attorney is a dog.

Astroturfing

Organizations can hire fake advocates who create the illusion of real support for their message. It’s a shady practice called astroturfing that can warp the public perception of anything...even astroturfing.

Trade

Donald Trump is waging a trade war that hurts a lot of American workers. Maybe he would understand that if our heavy-handed documentaries about the global trading system were more informative.

Felony Disenfranchisement

Many people with felony convictions are unfairly prohibited from voting, and the worst state for this — surprise — is Florida.

Facebook

Facebook’s global expansion has been linked to political turmoil overseas, so maybe their ads should focus less on how they “connect the world” and more on why connecting people isn’t always the best idea.

Brett Kavanaugh

John Oliver discusses the ongoing controversy surrounding Brett Kavanaugh, the sexual assault allegations against him, his Supreme Court nomination, and what that could all mean for the highest (mostly-dog) court in the land.

Brazilian Elections

Brazil is about to elect a new president during a turbulent period of political corruption and economic uncertainty. John Oliver urges the people of Brazil not to figuratively fingerbang their democracy.

Saudi Arabia

Following the alarming disappearance of a Saudi journalist and political dissident, John Oliver examines America's uncomfortably comfortable relationship with Saudi Arabia.

State Attorneys General

State AGs have become major partisan players in national politics, so the races to elect them are worth your attention.

Family Separation

John Oliver discusses the disturbing policy that separated migrant families detained at our southern border, and the disturbingly real chance that it could happen again.

Drain the Swamp

Donald Trump promised to “drain the swamp.” But considering the culture of corruption inside of his administration, Washington is looking awfully...swampy.

Authoritarianism

John Oliver discusses the growing number of authoritarian leaders around the world, their common characteristics, and whether or not one of them is currently our president.

Brexit III

The UK could officially leave the European Union next month, which would be a huge change with hugely damaging consequences.

Psychics

Psychics may seem harmless and fun on TV, but they can make a lot of money by exploiting vulnerable people.

Automation

Automation often seems like a scary new problem, but it’s neither entirely scary nor entirely new.

Robocalls

Robocalls are a growing problem. If only we could make the FCC care a little bit more about fixing it.

Public Shaming

John Oliver talks about the power of public shaming, good and bad.

WWE

John Oliver discusses how the WWE takes care of its wrestlers — and how it doesn’t.

Mobile Homes

Mobile homes may seem like an affordable housing option, but large investment companies are making them less and less so.

Opioids II

Following some recent revelations about the role of large companies in America’s ongoing opioid epidemic, John Oliver takes another look at the crisis.

Mueller Report

Following the release of the Mueller Report, John Oliver discusses what we’ve learned.

Lethal Injections

John Oliver discusses the lethal injection process, which is definitely not as pleasant as talking about a squeaking frog.

Green New Deal

With the Green New Deal sparking a national conversation about all the ways to combat climate change, John Oliver looks at a few potential solutions.

Death Investigations

America’s system for conducting death investigations is a mess. John Oliver explains why we should all be a little more concerned about fixing it.

Medical Devices

John Oliver discusses the medical device industry, which is a huge business with a hugely troubling lack of regulation.

Equal Rights Amendment

There’s still nothing in our constitution that explicitly prohibits sex discrimination. John Oliver talks about how to fix that.

Impeachment

With a national conversation underway about the possibility of impeachment, John Oliver discusses whether the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Everest

Climbing Mount Everest has become dangerously popular. John Oliver explains why.

Warehouses

It’s easy to buy things online, and even easier not to think about how they get to you. John Oliver discusses what happens when you click “buy now.”

Boris Johnson

John Oliver explains how Britain’s new prime minister, Boris Johnson, has succeeded – not despite his bumbling persona, but often because of it.

Prison Labor

John Oliver explains how prisoners make and spend money, and how companies can profit at the expense of their families.

Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov

John Oliver takes a look at the president of Turkmenistan, a dangerous autocrat with some notably strange obsessions.

Bias in Medicine

John Oliver discusses the roles that gender and racial bias can play in medical treatment.

Filibuster

John Oliver explains why filibusters exist, why they shouldn't, and why it's stupid to drink coffee like a cat.

Legal Immigration

Legal immigration is a term which was repeated throughout the Trump presidency. But John Oliver explains its absurdity as well as why people resort to illegal means to enter the country. He breaks down all the four ways a person can enter USA legally: Family, Employment, Good Luck (Visa Lottery), Bad Luck (Refugee).

Compounding Pharmacies

Compounding pharmacies create medication tailored to the specific needs of individual patients. John Oliver explains why this small corner of the drug market can cause big problems.

One Child Policy

John Oliver discusses China’s one-child policy, and all its consequences, intended and not.

Weather

John talks about Weather forecasting, Barry Lee Myers and the National Weather Service

Trump & Syria

John Oliver discusses the alarming decision to pull U.S. troops away from the border between Turkey and Syria.

Voting Machines

John Oliver discusses how voting machines work, how they don’t, and how we can fix them.

SLAPP Suits

After winning a legal battle involving a coal executive and a giant squirrel, John Oliver explains how SLAPP suits are designed to stifle public dissent.

The Census

Main story: 2020 United States Census; plus, the impeachment inquiry against Donald Trump and Chiitan.

Medicare for All

Main story: The pros and cons of Medicare for All; plus, Bill Barr does Trump's personal bidding; and Flyers mascot Gritty is exonerated!

Modi

Main story: John Oliver talks about India's controversial Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, and his government's Hindu nationalism; plus, a look at Mike Bloomberg's presidential campaign.

Coronavirus

John covers the Covid-19 pandemic, how each country, including the US, is handling it, and why the Phillie Phanatic is in a copyright row. Also, Tom Steyer quits the Democratic presidential race, and Chris Matthews messes up his sign offs.

Sheriffs

Main story: A look at how much power and how little accountability local sheriffs have; plus, Trump's coronavirus incompetence; India's self-censorship of 'Last Week Tonight.'

Coronavirus II

Main story: 2019–20 coronavirus outbreak, governmental response in the US, and the prevention of COVID-19. This episode was filmed at an unspecified location with no live audience as the studio and the show's offices were shut down after employees tested positive for COVID-19. John Oliver stated the show will go on hiatus for an unspecified amount of time but will definitely return.

Coronavirus III

In the first show from his makeshift home studio, John covers the horrible way COVID-19 pandemic is going and how Trump is mishandling it, how TV hosts are practicing social distancing, and how profoundly gleeful 90s erotic rat art can be.

One America News Network

John criticizes the Republican governors' response to the pandemic, showcases how everyone filming from home gets asked if they're wearing pants, and warns of the new ultra right wing, extremely pro-Trump network called OAN(N).

Essential Workers

John explains how the Trump administration failed to protect the unemployed, small businesses and essential workers during the pandemic, the peeps make their unholy return, and 90s rat erotica makes John's day once again.

Coronavirus Misinformation

John analyzes the right wing media's protests, conspiracy theories and misinformation spreading about the pandemic, spotlights Inside Edition's latest 'coming up' segments, and becomes a fan of the home edition of The Wendy Williams Show.

COVID-19 Testing

John points out the failure of The FDA and federal government when experts encourage widespread coronavirus testing for several months. The number of tests being done everyday far behind the lowest recommended number. John talks about the different types of tests: diagnostic and antibody tests, and how the tests work.

United States Postal Service

John discusses the United States Postal Service which is in dire need of economic assistance from the government. He examines some of the essential services of the USPS and why it is facing such financial trouble due to a 2006 law requiring it to pre-pay health care benefits on a fifty year schedule while at the same time putting price caps on services and products.

Coronavirus Impact on Sports

John discusses the sudden disappearance of sports due to coronavirus, how their absence is impacting people emotionally and financially, and the complications of bringing them back anytime soon.

Postal Voting

John explains the importance of voting by mail. Also, mass protests against police brutality erupt in Minneapolis, TV hosts inquire about the odd objects behind their stay-at-home guests, and John schools UFC president Dana White.

Police

This episode tackles the hard truth about the history of Police in the United States and the many problems that are faced in fixing those problems.

Facial Recognition

Facial recognition is no longer an issue of a thriller movie. It has become a part of our life. John Oliver talks about various aspects and global practice of facial recognition technology. He explains how dangerous it could be by addressing the questionable activities of facial recognition company Clearview AI.

Prisons & Jails

In the latest episode on coronavirus John talks about US prisons and jails. These confined spaces have frightening number of COVID-19 infections. And there has been insufficient initiatives to address the matter. Consequently, in some cases inmates are taking matters in their own hand to raise concern about situation behind bars.

Coronavirus IX: Evictions

Like coronavirus and unemployment issues evictions is something that USA could prepared for. While people are choosing between rent and food due to the pandemic, John Oliver presented the flaws of current system and flawed solution. He urges federal government to come with a proper solution for the affected soon. Also, some people refuse to wear masks, and Papa John embraces TikTok.

Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracy theories are the hotcakes of the internet. John talks about why people like these conspiracy theories and why in the age of internet it spreads so quickly. He also explains the detrimental effect can have on people's life. Finally celebrities urges people to be more vigilant and inquisitive about these theories as majority of these theories are baseless and created to create unrest among people.

Uighurs

The Uighur people are facing human rights abuses in China; plus, Trump’s authoritarian show of force in Portland; Martha Stewart loosens up.

U.S. History

A look at how the history of race is taught in schools; plus, Trump pushes bad medicine; Louie Gohmert tests positive; and Steve Guttenberg has a 'Cameo.'

Juries

John Oliver takes a look at why people of color are routinely excluded from becoming jurors, who their absence impacts, and what we can do to create a fairer system.

Border Wall

Nearing the 2020 election, John Oliver checks in on one of the key promises of President Trump’s 2016 campaign: the border wall. Plus, The “Unconventional Convention”; the return of Pumpkin Spice.

RNC 2020 & Kenosha

John Oliver discusses a week that saw the Republican National Convention, a horrific series of shootings in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and a strike in professional sports -- three stories that are really one story, about race in America.

Supreme Court

In the wake of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death, John Oliver discusses the future of the Supreme Court, why the government doesn’t always represent the political leanings of the electorate, and how those issues will impact the next generation of Americans.

Election 2020

Weeks out from the 2020 presidential election, John Oliver takes a look at various efforts to destabilize the vote, how to ensure your ballot is properly counted, and why we may need to prepare not just for an election night, but for an election month.

The World Health Organization

John Oliver talks about the functions of World Health Organization and why it is a vital part of the upcoming US election. John points out the contribution WHO made over the years, explains the reason why USA pays more than other countries and describes the mistakes of this highly impactful organization.

Asylum

John Oliver talks about the situation of asylum seekers in USA under Trump administration. He points out the three major changes in policy (migrant protection protocols, safe third country agreements and Title 42) which are deciding the future of asylum seekers.

Trump & the Coronavirus and William Barr

John Oliver takes a look at how the Trump administration has handled the coronavirus outbreak in the US, from lack of preparation, to mangled coordination, to harmful communication. John also discusses William Barr’s attitude toward authority and executive power, how that attitude has influenced Donald Trump’s presidency, and what it could mean if Trump wins a second term.

Election Results 2020

John Oliver discusses the long week of US presidential election results, including Donald Trump’s various attempts to make the election appear illegitimate, and a historic win for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.

Trump & Election Results

A week after Joe Biden’s win in the US presidential election, John Oliver discusses Donald Trump’s various attempts to overturn the results, why his claims don’t hold water, and the consequences of indulging him.

Episode 210: The Next Pandemic

Main story: What could cause the next pandemic, what we can do to avoid it, and why you shouldn’t kiss pigs; plus, Impeachment Part 2.

Episode 211: Meatpacking

Main story: Working conditions in the meatpacking industry; plus, the Texas power crisis in the wake of severe winter weather.

Episode 212: Raids

Main story: How few guardrails there are on the use of police raids; plus, New York governor Andrew Cuomo faces multiple scandals.

Episode 213: Unemployment

Main story: The many obstacles that impede access to unemployment benefits; plus, Fox News freaks out over Dr. Seuss.

Episode 214: Tucker Carlson

Main story: Where Tucker Carlson came from and why he's admired by white nationalists; plus, reaction to the Biden COVID-19 relief bill.

Episode 215: Plastics

Main story: How plastics are harming the planet, and why recycling isn’t the solution you think it is; plus, the Atlanta mass shootings and hate crimes against Asian-Americans.

Episode 216: The National Debt

Main story: How national debt works and why it might be more helpful than you'd think; plus, Giuliani freaks over Lil Nas X; Amazon's anti-union tactics; Peeps and Pepsi form an unholy alliance.

Episode 217: Long-Term Care

Main story: Why nursing homes and assisted living facilities need fixing; plus, the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program; Matt Gaetz and Venmo; R.I.P. Yahoo! Answers.

Episode 218: Bankruptcy

John Oliver details why people file for bankruptcy, how needlessly difficult the process can be, and the ways we can better serve people struggling with debt.

Episode 219: Vaccine

John Oliver explains why some people don't want to get the Covid-19 vaccine and how they might be reassured.

Episode 220: Hair

John Oliver discusses the importance of black hair, the ways it can be a target of discrimination, and some ideas to address that.

Episode 221: Stand Your Ground

Main Story: John Oliver takes a look at why “stand your ground” laws were created, who they protect, and, crucially, who they don’t. Plus, a look at the past week’s events in Israel.

Episode 222: Sponcon

John Oliver explains why the integrity of local news is so important, how sponsored content could damage that integrity, and why the Venus Veil is so much more than a blanket. (It's not.)

Episode 223: Asian Americans

John Oliver discusses the large and diverse group of people who fall under the term "Asian American", the history of the model minority stereotype, and why our conversations on the subject need to be better-informed.

Episode 224: Prison Heat

John Oliver explains how the failure to air-condition prisons can cause both physical and mental health issues for incarcerated people, and why the solution is simpler than you might think. Plus, some truly unique local car dealership ads.

Episode 225: PACE

John Oliver explains how PACE, a program meant to pay for environmentally-friendly home renovations, is fundamentally flawed and can put people at risk of losing their homes. Plus, why hosting summer Olympics in Tokyo this year is a bad idea and why dog shows are weird.

Episode 226: Health Care Sharing Ministries

Health Care Sharing Ministries, or HCSMs, advertise themselves as a more affordable, faith-based alternative to health insurance. But John Oliver explains some of the massive limitations these plans can have.

Episode 227: Housing Discrimination

John Oliver breaks down the long history of housing discrimination in the U.S., the damage it's done, and, crucially, what we can do about it.

Episode 228: Emergency Medical Services

John Oliver explains how emergency medical services function in the U.S., why they can be so expensive, and what we can do to fix things.

Episode 229: Opioids III – The Sacklers

John Oliver explains how the Sackler family has been handling lawsuits related to the opioid crisis, how hard they've been fighting to defend their name, and why you should judge the situation for yourself.

Episode 230: Ransomware

John Oliver discusses ransomware attacks, why they’re on the rise, and what can be done about them.

August 22, 2021: Afghanistan

John Oliver discusses the end of America's war with Afghanistan and the humanitarian crisis being left behind.

September 12, 2021: Lukashenko

John Oliver discusses the longtime leader of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, and the many reasons his country's citizens have not to like him.

September 26, 2021: Voting Rights

John Oliver discusses the current attacks on voting rights, who's behind them, and what we can do about it. Plus, John enters several paintings in the annual Duck Stamp contest.

October 3, 2021: PFAS

John Oliver discusses PFAS - a class of chemicals linked to an array of health issues - and why their widespread use isn't as magical as it may seem.

Episode 235

John Oliver discusses how misinformation spreads among immigrant diaspora communities, how little some platforms have done to stop it, and, most importantly, how to have a very good morning.

Episode 236

John Oliver discusses Taiwan's history of being governed by other countries, its fraught present-day relationship with China, and what its citizens would want their future to look like.

Episode 237

With homelessness increasing nationwide, John Oliver takes a look at the way we discuss the unhoused, what policy failures are making the problem worse, and how we can help.

Episode 238

John Oliver discusses the current state of the nation's power grid, why it needs fixing, and, of course, how fun the balloons are.

Episode 239

John Oliver discusses the mechanics of union busting, why the companies who do it face so few consequences, and what it really means when your manager wants to talk to you about "your attendance."

February 20, 2022: Critical Race Theory

John Oliver explains what critical race theory is, what it isn't, and why we can expect to hear more about it in the coming months. Plus, the Canadian trucker protests.

February 27, 2022: Sex Work

As long as sex work has existed, so have efforts to end it. John Oliver explains why criminalizing the trade hasn’t helped the most vulnerable people involved, and why we should start listening to those at the center of the conversation: sex workers. Plus, Russian invasion into Ukraine, that has placed the whole world at the brink of WW3.

March 6, 2022: Wrongful Convictions

John Oliver talks about the current practices of overturning wrongful convictions and how it is quite unsupportive of even apparently innocent people. He advocates for urgent reforms in the flawed system which is clearly not working in favor of the innocents. Plus, the heroic resistance of Ukrainians against the invasion of Russia.

March 13, 2022: Tickets

John Oliver explains why concert tickets are so expensive, who’s making money off of them, and which One Direction is his favorite. Plus, the introduction of some appalling anti-LGBT laws in several states.

March 27, 2022: Harm Reduction

John Oliver discusses why overdoses in the U.S. have been on the rise and what we should, and shouldn't, be doing to prevent them. Plus, a rather odd yearly tradition in Nenana, Alaska.

April 3, 2022: Trucks

John Oliver explains how truck drivers get paid, how they often don’t, and how companies exploit them to increase profits. Plus, Republican congressman Madison Cawthorn's tales of GOP orgies and drug use has him in trouble with his own party.

April 10, 2022: Data Brokers

John Oliver discusses how much data brokers know about us, what they’re doing with our personal information, and one unusual way to change privacy laws. Plus, Russian State TV lies about the Ukraine war; DirecTV drops OAN; John says goodbye to AT&T.

April 17, 2022: Police Interrogations

John Oliver discusses the tactics that can make police interrogations so damaging, particularly to the innocent. Plus, a look at Dr. Oz's campaign for U.S. Senate.

May 1, 2022: Environmental Racism

John Oliver discusses environmental racism, how both government and industry are failing people of color and how zoning is manipulating the same people to live in adverse conditions. Plus, pandas doing some weird things and 'gas math' by Shaquille O'Neal.

May 8, 2022: Abortion Ruling/Philippines Election

John Oliver discusses the current presidential election in The Philippines and why Bongbong Marcos is - albeit in a very limited and unflattering way - sort of like Ant-Man. Plus, the leaked anti-abortion draft opinion that looks set to overturn Roe v. Wade, how we got to this point, and where we may be headed.

May 15, 2022: Utilities

John Oliver discusses the incredible amount of power we give electric utility companies, how weakly regulated they are, and why they get such bad Yelp reviews. Plus, a look at Alabama's extreme anti-trans law and some ridiculous participants of the Eurovision Song Contest 2022.

May 22, 2022: Subway

John Oliver discusses one of the largest franchises in the U.S., how their business model doesn’t always serve franchisees, and what it all has to do with Korean dramas.

June 5, 2022: School Police

In the wake of the mass shooting in Uvalde, John Oliver discusses the push for more police in schools and whether they are the answer to school safety issues, or a new problem altogether. Plus, John makes an offer for a banana sculpture in Australia.

June 12, 2022: Tech Monopolies

John Oliver discusses tech monopolies such as Apple, Google, Amazon, and Facebook, and how to address the hidden harm they can do. Plus, a look at the hotly contested U.S. Senate race in Arizona, which includes Trump-endorsed candidate Blake Masters.

June 19, 2022: Rent

John Oliver discusses why rent has become increasingly unaffordable, what we can do to combat a system that is stacked against tenants, and, of course, Dakota Johnson’s complex relationship to limes. Plus, a look at GOP primary winners claiming the 2020 election was stolen.

June 26, 2022: Water

John Oliver discusses the water shortage in the American west; plus, the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.

July 24, 2022: Inflation

John Oliver discusses the causes of inflation and what we've done about it; plus, updates on the beach dolls and the banana sculpture.

July 31, 2022: Mental Health Care

John Oliver discusses the cracks in our broken mental health care system; plus, a look at who's running to become the UK's prime minister.

August 7, 2022: Monkeypox

John Oliver discusses the recent monkeypox outbreak in the U.S., how the authorities have fumbled the response to it, and some aspirations for this coming autumn. Plus, Walter from Butler, Indiana, likes to share stuff, perhaps a little too much.

August 14, 2022: Afghanistan

John Oliver discusses what’s happened since the U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan, how their ongoing crisis has even more to do with our decisions than you might think, and how to properly modify the verb “feel”. Plus, some true masterpieces of an AI-generated art.

August 21, 2022: Carbon Offsets

John Oliver explains what carbon offsets are, what they claim to do, how they might be making climate change even worse, and, of course, how Oscar Isaac is getting hotter.

September 11, 2022: Law & Order

John Oliver discusses the wildly popular television franchise, what it’s been teaching us about law enforcement, and how it differs from the reality. Plus, some important developments in British politics.

September 25, 2022: Bolsonaro

John Oliver discusses Jair Bolsonaro, how he's run Brazil as president and how far he might go to maintain power after the upcoming election. Plus, the absurd stunt by Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis involving Martha's Vineyard and why people in Puerto Rico are getting fed up by the electric company Luma.

October 2, 2022: Museums

John Oliver discusses some of the world's most prestigious museums, why they contain so many stolen goods, the market that continues to illegally trade antiquities, and a pretty solid blueprint for revenge. Plus, the disappearance of the British PM Liz Truss.

October 9, 2022: Crime Reporting

John Oliver discusses the outlets that cover crime, the incentives that drive them, the flawed sources they rely upon, and an alternative name for Miss Piggy. Plus, why teenage girls in Iran are leading massive protests against the current regime.

October 16, 2022: Transgender Rights II

John Oliver discusses the latest round of attacks on transgender rights, what’s at stake, and how kids are schooling the ignorant adults on this topic. Plus, why the Crimean Bridge is having a bad time these days.

October 30, 2022: Bail Reform

With the U.S. midterm elections approaching, John Oliver discusses the issue at the core of many republican attack ads: bail reform. Plus, the turmoil in British politics after the resignation of PM Liz Truss.

November 6, 2022: Election Subversion

With the U.S. midterm elections approaching, John Oliver discusses what happens after the votes are in, how some elected officials might try to negate legitimate election results, and which teletubby would taste best. Plus, the Halloween costume of Heidi Klum.

November 13, 2022: The Monarchy

John Oliver discusses the future of the British monarchy, what they have and have not acknowledged about their past, and how Winston Churchill preferred to go down waterslides. Plus, Steve Kornacki and his big board.

November 20, 2022: Qatar World Cup

John Oliver discusses the Qatar World Cup, the human-rights violations happening in the sporting event’s host country, and what perfection really means to David Beckham. Plus, the chaos Twitter is experiencing after Elon Musk took over the company and more of AI-generated art featuring John Oliver.

February 19, 2023: Psychedelic Assisted Therapy

John Oliver discusses psychedelic assisted therapy: its history, its potential, and what it has to do with A$AP Rocky’s relationship to rainbows. Plus, the Fox News lawsuit and the Ohio train derailment.

February 26, 2023: Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is increasingly becoming part of our lives, from self-driving cars to ChatGPT. John Oliver discusses how AI works, where it might be heading next, and, of course, why it hates the bus.

March 5, 2023: Ron DeSantis

John Oliver discusses Ron DeSantis, his track record as the governor of Florida, the pitfalls of comparing him to Donald Trump, and the supposed dangers of “woke math.” Plus, the hilarious advertising by a plumbing company called Radiant.

March 12, 2023: TANF

John Oliver discusses TANF - a federal program designed to help families with little to no income – who’s currently receiving these vital funds, who should be receiving them, and what it all has to do with Brett Favre. Plus, a look at Tennessee’s new law about drag performances and the lieutenant governor who supports the law.

March 19, 2023: Timeshares

John Oliver discusses timeshares, how people get into them, why it’s so difficult to get out, and one exciting new business venture.

April 2, 2023: Solitary Confinement

John Oliver discusses solitary confinement, how prevalent it is, how damaging it can be, and, of course, how to hit the woah.

April 9, 2023: Homeowners Associations

John Oliver discusses homeowners associations, the surprising power they have, and how to tell if a tree is “tree-shaped.”

April 16, 2023: Farmworkers

John Oliver discusses the conditions farmworkers face, how we failed to protect them, and the Jolly Green Giant’s body hair.

April 23, 2023: Cryptocurrencies II

John Oliver discusses cryptocurrency, the collapse of three big crypto companies, and what to do if your office gives off “crime vibes.”

April 30, 2023: Biden and the Border

A look at the things Biden has promised to fix about our southern border, what he has and hasn’t done, and a magnificent pile of gators.

October 1, 2023: Prison Health Care

John Oliver discusses the health care offered in prisons; plus, a look at the past five months, from the WGA strike to Lauren Boebert.

October 8, 2023: Homeschooling

John Oliver discusses homeschooling, its surprising lack of regulation in many states, and, crucially, Darth Vader's parenting skills.

October 15, 2023: Food Safety

John Oliver discusses the groups in charge of keeping our food safe – from the FDA, to the USDA, to, most crucially, the Association for Dressings and Sauces.

October 22, 2023: McKinsey

John Oliver discusses the oldest and largest management consulting firm: McKinsey & Company.

October 29, 2023: Chocolate

John Oliver discusses chocolate, cocoa farming, and, of course, some facts that will make Halloween a little weird.

November 5, 2023: Abortion Rights

John Oliver discusses the ongoing fallout from the overturning of Roe v. Wade as the November elections approach.

November 12, 2023: Israel-Hamas War

John Oliver discusses the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

November 19, 2023: Dollar Stores

John Oliver discusses dollar stores and why Irish Spring is not his soap of choice.

December 3, 2023: Organ & Body Donations

John Oliver discusses the systems in place for donating our organs and bodies, why those donations don't always go where we might think they're going, and which airline is the Greyhound bus of the sky.

December 10, 2023: Freight Trains

John Oliver discusses freight trains and railroads, how they've put profits over safety, and, crucially, what shows he watched as a child that explain … everything.

December 17, 2023: Elon Musk

John Oliver discusses Elon Musk, the influence he has over more than just his businesses, and the perfect place for him and Mark Zuckerberg to finally have that cage match.

February 18, 2024: Supreme Court

John Oliver discusses the Supreme Court, the ethically questionable gifts some of the justices receive, and an offer for Clarence Thomas that could ruin John's life. Genuinely. You'll see.

February 25, 2024: Pig Butchering

John Oliver discusses a popular internet scam, why it's easier to fall for it than you might think, and, of course, boner alerts.

March 3, 2024: Airplanes

John Oliver discusses how Boeing went from being a company known for quality craftsmanship to one synonymous with crashes, mishaps and "quality escape." Whatever that means.

March 10, 2024: State Medical Boards

John Oliver discusses how state medical boards fail to protect patients, Kamala Harris' awkward call for a ceasefire in Gaza, the North Carolina Republican running for governor, and which reality show would benefit from becoming a government psyop.

March 17, 2024: Student Loan Debt

John Oliver discusses the state of student loans, the House vote to ban TikTok, why House Republicans refused to attend their work retreat, and, of course, Left Shark.

March 31, 2024: Food Delivery Apps

John Oliver discusses the downsides of food delivery apps, Donald Trump's latest attempt to pay off his legal debts, and why one southern California police department got in trouble with Lego.

April 7, 2024: Death Penalty

John Oliver discusses new information about the methods used to carry out the death penalty, plus this week's earthquake in New Jersey, and John's new celebrity crush. It's not who you think. Whoever you're thinking of, you're wrong.

April 14, 2024: Medicaid

John Oliver discusses why millions of people have been kicked off of Medicaid, why Medicaid access was difficult even before the current "unwinding," and what would happen if fruits and vegetables could talk.

April 21, 2024: UFOs

John Oliver explains why we need honest inquiry into UFO sightings, covers the week's protests in the US over the war in Gaza, and recaps Adeel Mangi's confirmation hearing.

May 5, 2024: Public Libraries

John Oliver explains why public libraries are under attack, where those challenges are coming from, and how you really spell "Berenstain." Trust us, it's not how you think.

May 12, 2024: Opioid Settlements

John Oliver discusses how state and local governments in the US are spending opioid settlements, a new deportation plan in the UK, and, of course, his favorite contestant at Eurovision.

May 19, 2024: Corn Production

John Oliver discusses the financial and environmental impact of corn in the U.S., recent commencement ceremony mishaps, and the rise of the far-right AfD party in Germany.

June 2, 2024: India Elections

John Oliver discusses the ongoing elections in India, Trump's guilty verdict, and the decline of Red Lobster.

June 9, 2024: Deep-Sea Mining

John Oliver discusses the environmental risks of deep-sea mining, France's preparation for the Olympics, and an update on Red Lobster.

June 16, 2024: Trump's Second Term

John Oliver discusses the plans for Donald Trump's second term, an interesting campaign choice from a conservative congressional candidate in Michigan, and the bakery that has very successfully turned John into a cake bear.

June 23, 2024: UK Elections

John Oliver discusses the UK elections and the future of the Tories, why pride flags are causing controversy in the US, and a new law about the ten commandments in Louisiana. Also some stuff about Ur-Nammu that we all know already.

July 21, 2024: Migrant Crime

John Oliver discusses the wave of conservatives claiming there is a wave of "migrant crime," covers highlights from the RNC, and encourages us all to make suggestions for next year's World Games.

July 28, 2024: The West Bank Settlements

John Oliver discusses how The West Bank settlements came to be, a rumor about J.D. Vance that we cannot prove is false, and whether or not Jake Tapper is Brat.

August 4, 2024: RFK Jr.

John Oliver discusses RFK Jr.'s potential to sway the 2024 U.S. presidential election, controversies at the Olympics, and Donald Trump's recent puzzling comments about Kamala Harris.

August 11, 2024: Hawaii

John Oliver discusses how Hawaii has long been run for the benefit of everyone but Hawaiians, whether or not J.D. Vance is ok, and the Trump campaign's weak attacks on Tim Walz and Kamala Harris.

August 18, 2024: Hospice Care

John Oliver discusses hospice scams, the Trump campaign's attempt to appear "not weird," and the Republican primary candidates who are making the party seem stranger and stranger.

September 8, 2024: School Lunch Programs

John Oliver discusses the national school lunch program in the US, why J.D. Vance can't stop being weird on the campaign trail, and how to properly order a donut.

September 22, 2024: Disability Benefits

John Oliver discusses the obstacles in the way of Americans receiving disability benefits, last week's US presidential debate, and the misinformation being spread about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio.

September 29, 2024: Federal Courts

John Oliver discusses the impact Donald Trump had on the federal courts, how New York City's mayor was indicted for allegedly taking bribes from foreign sources, and why it's unforgivable that NYC's Rat Czar is not a rat in a top hat.

October 6, 2024: Traffic Stops

John Oliver discusses the power given to cops during traffic stops and some simple ways we can start to change that, and J.D. Vance's week surrounding the vice presidential debate.

October 13, 2024: Election Subversion

John Oliver discusses the attempts made by Donald Trump and his supporters to undermine the upcoming election, the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, and why Waffle House is both a light in the storm and symbol of absolute chaos.

October 27, 2024: Mass Deportations

John Oliver discusses Donald Trump's plans to carry out mass deportations if reelected in November, and outlines some suggestions regarding one patriotic anthem.

November 3, 2024: Trump's Businesses

John Oliver addresses undecided voters about Kamala Harris's platform in his last episode ahead of the 2024 election, discusses how Donald Trump's businesses have changed since his presidential term, and explores what could happen if Trump is reelected.

November 10, 2024: 2024 Election Results

John Oliver discusses Donald Trump's reelection, what happens next, and why the whole thing is – arguably – Katy Perry's fault.

November 17, 2024: TikTok Ban

John Oliver discusses the looming TikTok ban in the US and Donald Trump's controversial nomination of Matt Gaetz to be Attorney General.

February 16, 2025: Trump 2.0

John Oliver discusses the first four weeks of Donald Trump's second term as president, the strategy behind some of the choices his administration has made, and why it is indeed f**k time. You heard us: It's f**k time.

February 23, 2025: Facebook

John Oliver discusses Facebook's controversial new plans for content moderation and DOGE's continued firing of government workers, including some of America's best dorks: park rangers.

March 2, 2025: Tipping

John Oliver discusses the right-wing personalities who are now in charge of the FBI, the White House's disastrous meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and why tipping is more complicated and fraught than you might realize.

March 9, 2025: ICE Detention Facilities

John Oliver discusses Donald Trump's address to Congress, why Republicans have been having a rough time at town halls, the reality of ICE detention facilities, and one very special establishment in Maine.

March 16, 2025: Sports Betting

John Oliver discusses the arrest of Mahmoud Khalil, the continued firing of federal workers, the world of sports betting, and what John likes to read in his spare time. You'll see.

March 30, 2025: Tasers

John Oliver discusses whether Tasers are as safe and effective as the company that makes them claims, the broader effect Tasers have had on policing, and why you shouldn't test Tasers out on any of your family members.

April 6, 2025: Trans Athletes

John Oliver discusses Donald Trump's sweeping new set of tariffs and why trans athletes seem to be at the center of U.S. politics.

April 13, 2025: Trump & Tariffs

John Oliver discusses the ongoing chaos surrounding Donald Trump and tariffs, and why it's important to understand exactly how stupid the past week has been. Plus: Some stuff about fish having sex, why a doorbell is involved, and one very special guest.

April 27, 2025: Health Agency Cuts

John Oliver discusses the budget and staffing cuts being made to public health agencies in the U.S. under RFK Jr.'s leadership, the many ways those cuts will impact all of us, and some sad news about a beloved cereal mascot.

May 4, 2025: Deportations

John Oliver discusses the recent deportations by the Trump administration.

May 11, 2025: Alliance Defending Freedom

John Oliver takes a look at the Alliance Defending Freedom – the legal organization behind several landmark Supreme Court cases, including the Dobbs case that overturned Roe v. Wade. Plus, a five-star book review of a one-star book.

May 18, 2025: Trump in the Press

John Oliver discusses how Donald Trump is becoming an increasing threat to the press, reveals which Minor League Baseball team we've chosen for a rebrand, and explores what it means to "serve kant"!

June 1, 2025: Air Traffic Controllers

John Oliver discusses the working conditions of air traffic controllers, why those conditions are impacting us all, and – for those under 30 – what a "floppy disk" is.

June 8, 2025: Med Spas

John Oliver discusses the feud between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, Mike Lindell's trial, the lack of regulation at med spas, and a fun new way to spell "scumbag."

June 15, 2025: Child Incarceration

John Oliver discusses the past week's protests against ICE's escalating deportation strategies, how the U.S. is incarcerating kids at a rate that may exceed other nations, and what it looks like to be teargassed in a chill way.

June 22, 2025: AI Content

John Oliver discusses the U.S.'s involvement in the war between Israel and Iran, the recent influx of AI-generated online content, and the unexpected downsides of hiking near the Hollywood sign.

June 29, 2025: Trump's Big Beautiful Bill

John Oliver discusses the race for mayor in New York City and what could happen if Donald Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" is passed, and unveils the new mascot for Erie, Pennsylvania's Minor League Baseball team. A mascot to eclipse all other mascots.

July 27, 2025: Gang Databases

John Oliver discusses why Donald Trump spent the past week deflecting from developments concerning Jeffrey Epstein, the massive problems caused by gang databases, and what happened at Erie's inaugural Moon Mammoths game.

August 3, 2025: Deferred Prosecution Agreements

John Oliver discusses how Israel is starving civilians in Gaza by blocking vital aid, how deferred prosecution agreements are helping corporations sweep serious crimes under the rug, and the least horny message you could possibly get on Hinge.

August 10, 2025: Deportation Promise

John Oliver discusses the Trump administration's promise to deport one million immigrants, what the follow through on that promise looks like in practice, and what the actual rules are about the masked police arresting civilians across the country.

August 17, 2025: Make America Healthy Again

John Oliver discusses why Donald Trump seized control of the police in Washington, D.C., where the "Make America Healthy Again" movement in the U.S. could be headed, and whether or not you can buy testicles on Amazon. Three issues of equal importance.

September 7, 2025: Higher Education

John Oliver discusses Florida's move to end vaccine mandates, Trump's war on higher education, and why universities should start acting more like tough little shrimp. Ya, you heard us: tough little shrimp.

September 21, 2025: Jimmy Kimmel Suspension

John Oliver discusses ABC's move to pull Jimmy Kimmel off the air, what it has to do with Brendan Carr and the FCC, and what it means for free speech in the United States, plus some pertinent information about one very depressed loaf of bread.

September 28, 2025: Benjamin Netanyahu

John Oliver discusses Benjamin Netanyahu's grip on power in Israel, why he's allied with some of the most extreme voices in his country today, and finally, a summary of one iconic meltdown we think TikTok is gonna wanna revisit.

October 5, 2025: Presidential Libraries

John Oliver discusses what presidential libraries are exactly, how presidents use them to fundraise in office, how Donald Trump might make existing problems even worse and – of course – some stuff about one president's unique inseam.

October 12, 2025: Paramount Skydance Merger

John Oliver discusses the Paramount Skydance merger, and how they've named Bari Weiss the new Editor-in-Chief of CBS News.

October 26, 2025: Medicare Advantage

John Oliver details what Medicare Advantage is, and why it basically has all the pitfalls of private insurance.

November 2, 2025: Police Chases

John Oliver discusses the prevalence of police chases, and why the risks involved can massively outweigh the benefits.

November 9, 2025: Felony Murder

John Oliver discusses felony murder, a way you can wind up in prison for murder without actually killing anyone, and why Cillian Murphy won an Oscar, not his parents whose hot Irish sex led to his existence. Those last two things are related. We swear.

November 16, 2025: Public Media

John Oliver discusses Jeffrey Epstein's emails about Donald Trump, the vital role public media plays in the lives of many Americans, and some absolutely essential questions about a squirrel named Peapod.

February 15, 2026: ICE

John Oliver discusses ICE's repeated atrocities over the past months and explores the massive entity overseeing it all: the Department of Homeland Security. How it started, who runs it, and how many hats Kristi Noem owns.

February 22, 2026: Twitter

John Oliver discusses how an already flawed Twitter got worse under Elon Musk, how it continues to impact us all, and what it has to do with the 30-40 trillion cells humans are composed of.

March 1, 2026: Police Body Cameras

John Oliver discusses why police body cameras can be useful, or useless, depending on whether they're used properly, and yeah, he also discusses what it looks like to arrest a giant mouse. Because of course he does.

March 8, 2026: USAID

John Oliver discusses the U.S. and Israel's strikes on Iran, why the Trump Administration has gutted the United States Agency for International Development, and why John is jealous of Stephen A. Smith. Or, sorry – Brick.

March 15, 2026: J.D. Vance

John Oliver discusses the Trump Administration's mixed messaging surrounding the U.S.'s ongoing war with Iran, then explores J.D. Vance's ideologies past and present, including but not limited to who J.D. thinks is a real stupidhead.

March 22, 2026: Police Stings

John Oliver discusses police stings, why they can seem like they're creating more crime than they're stopping, and the best alias for any undercover cop, ever, in history. Ok, fine, we'll just tell you: It's a tie between "Angelo Lasagna" and "Rico Rigatone."

March 29, 2026: Hungary

John Oliver discusses the elections on the horizon for Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orbán, why conservatives in the US are so invested in him maintaining power, and what it all has to do with Rob Schneider.

April 19, 2026: Prediction Markets

John Oliver discusses prediction markets – platforms where you can bet on basically anything, from the weather to the war in Iran – and the legal and moral questions posed by their existence.

April 26, 2026: AI Chatbots

John Oliver discusses AI chatbots, why they're flirting with users unprompted and encouraging people to open soggy cereal cafes, and how their flaws can be genuinely hazardous to the public.

May 3, 2026: Gas Station Drugs

John Oliver discusses the sprawling industry of "gas station drugs" – a world of questionable supplements and boner pills – which is posing a risk to the public by putting under-regulated substances over the counter.

May 10, 2026: Shadow Docket

John Oliver discusses the shadow docket – a shortcut to the Supreme Court which is rapidly advancing the Trump administration's agenda. Plus, some fun and unexpected facts about turtles! You know, to spice things up.

May 17, 2026: Structured Settlements

John Oliver discusses structured settlements – the incremental payments designed to sustain victims of injury or wrongful death over long periods of time.

May 31, 2026: Presidential Pardons

John Oliver discusses who Donald Trump has pardoned since he's been in office, and what it would be like to have sex with a cartoon character who has your voice. Not a cartoon character OF YOU! Just a cartoon character *with your voice.*

June 7, 2026: New College of Florida

John Oliver discusses New College of Florida – the small liberal arts school that has been taken over by Governor Ron DeSantis – and why we think their new mascot would really get Samantha from Sex and the City going.

June 14, 2026: UK Elections

John Oliver discusses the upcoming elections in the UK, why the race for Prime Minister hinges on 76,000 voters who live in a small area called Makerfield, and which party leader looks like his first words were "British East India Company."

June 21, 2026: Feral Hogs

John Oliver discusses one of the most destructive invasive species in America: feral hogs. How they got here, the damage they're doing, and why the Discovery Channel should really consider doing "Cow Week."

June 28, 2026: Congressional Maps

John Oliver discusses how the Supreme Court has paved the way for the redrawing of congressional maps across the country, and what it means for the midterm elections. Plus, an urgent update on Gavin Newsom’s summer reading.

July 26, 2026: Trump Cryptocurrency

John Oliver discusses how the Trump family's cryptocurrency ventures have overshadowed their other businesses, how they've created massive conflicts of interest for the Trump administration, and what it all has to do with Fartcoin.

August 2, 2026: Police Tools

John Oliver discusses the tools police are using to keep track of civilians – whether or not they're suspected of a crime – and some creative ideas about how to use wigs.

August 9, 2026: Department of Justice

John Oliver discusses how the Department of Justice has changed since Trump took office for his second term.

August 16, 2026: Fetus Rights

John Oliver discusses how some states in the U.S. have given rights to fetuses, where the idea came from and where things could be headed next.

August 23, 2026: Subscription Model

John Oliver discusses why more and more companies are shifting to a subscription model, how it's impacting consumers, and what could possibly be more embarrassing than liking Madame Web.

September 20, 2026: UnitedHealth Group

With Luigi Mangione's upcoming sentencing, John Oliver devotes the full episode to covering UnitedHealth Group: Why customers hate them, how they got so profitable, and why doctors are wishing explosive diarrhea on their board members.

September 27, 2026: Brazil's Presidential Election

John Oliver discusses Brazil's upcoming presidential election, the baggage associated with the two leading candidates, and some insight into acting from John – a person who has acted. Twice.

October 4, 2026: Secret Service

John Oliver discusses the Secret Service, why they're in a worrying state, and how ethernet cables became disturbingly crucial to the nation's safety.

October 11, 2026: Generic Drugs

John Oliver does a deep dive on generic drugs, why they're so important, why they can be so vulnerable to shortages and quality issues, and why Kevin Bacon can't solve everything all on his own.

October 25, 2026: Republican Extremism

Ahead of the midterms, John Oliver devotes an entire episode to discussing the rising prominence of extremist beliefs within the Republican Party – from white nationalism to antisemitism – and what it all has to do with Vandy potato chips.

November 1, 2026: Midterm Elections

Ahead of this week's midterm elections, John Oliver discusses why things aren't looking great for Republicans, how they’re desperately trying to get ahead, and why Hamilton was a mistake. You heard us, Lin-Manuel. You've done more harm than good.

November 8, 2026: Pete Hegseth

John Oliver discusses the wave of historic wins for Democrats in the midterm elections, the mounting pressure to impeach U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and what it all has to do with Robert James Ritchie, aka "Kid Rock".

November 15, 2026