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On an episode of his show Real Time With Bill Maher on Friday, the host used a serious expletive on air, which has shocked audiences everywhere. While interviewing Nebraska senator Ben Sasse, Maher used the N-word (opens in new tab) as part of a joke. Stunned, Sasse didn't respond in the way he wanted to, and has since posted his real feelings about the incident on Twitter.
3. Here’s what I wish I’d been quick enough to say in the moment: “Hold up, why would you think it’s OK to use that word?...(3of4?) https://t.co/mQL6wMEd7WJune 3, 2017
But it isn't just Sasse tweeting about the inappropriate and offensive line, that the show's audience all appeared to laugh at. Black Lives Matter activist Deray Mckesson (opens in new tab) posted several tweets questioning the host's behavior.
But really, @BillMaher has got to go. There are no explanations that make this acceptable. pic.twitter.com/K5XlEjekQ9June 3, 2017
Several viewers are calling for Maher's show to be suspended altogether.
Please @HBO Do Not Air Another Episode Of Real Time With Bill Maher.June 3, 2017
And members of the live audience have even tweeted, questioning why Maher would think it was appropriate to use the word on TV.
Me : 👆🏾 Also me : I know y'all taping but I gotta talk to this muthafucka pic.twitter.com/Vd3fofgByjJune 3, 2017
HBO, which aired the show, has called Maher's actions (opens in new tab), "inexcusable and tasteless", although it's unclear if any further disciplinary action is being taken. But, thanks to the internet, audiences everywhere are making it clear that Maher's language was unacceptable and won't be tolerated.
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Amy Mackelden is a freelance writer, editor, and disability activist. Her bylines include Harper's BAZAAR, Nicki Swift, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, ELLE, The Independent, Bustle, Healthline, and HelloGiggles. She co-edited The Emma Press Anthology of Illness, and previously spent all of her money on Kylie Cosmetics.
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