Who expected this?
In a surprising twist, longtime liberal comedian Bill Maher is giving credit where it’s due—directly to President Donald J. Trump.
Maher, known for his sharp-tongued criticism of conservatives and Trump supporters, shared unexpected praise during the April 4 episode of Real Time with Bill Maher, describing his private March 31 dinner with President Trump as “gracious,” “measured,” and even “surprisingly thoughtful.”
A Private Dinner That Changed Perceptions
The dinner took place at the White House and was arranged by musician and outspoken patriot Kid Rock. Though Maher came armed with a list of nearly 60 insults Trump had lobbed at him over the years—including phrases like “dummy” and “sick guy”—what unfolded was far more civil than anticipated.
“He laughed—a real, genuine laugh. Not the kind you fake for the cameras,” Maher said. “I’ve never seen that side of him, but it was there.”
According to Maher, there was no pressure to adopt a political position, and he made it clear he hadn’t “turned MAGA.” What surprised him most was Trump’s calm demeanor, sense of humor, and willingness to engage on serious global issues like Iran’s nuclear program and the future of Gaza.
Talking Policy: Iran, Gaza, and the 2020 Election
At one point, Maher says, President Trump brought up Iran’s accelerating nuclear ambitions and asked for Maher’s perspective. Maher told the president he had supported parts of the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal—but what stood out was Trump’s reaction.
“He didn’t call me a left-wing lunatic. He just listened. No shouting, no insults. Just thoughtful conversation,” Maher said.
The two also discussed the 2020 election. Maher was shocked when Trump used the word “lost” in reference to the contest. “I said, ‘Wow, I never thought I’d hear you say that.’ He didn’t get mad. That surprised me.”
A Stark Contrast With the Left’s Cancel Culture
Maher, who has become more outspoken in recent years about the growing intolerance on the Left, emphasized that the meeting with Trump felt far more open and genuine than any hypothetical conversation with Democratic leaders.
“You don’t walk on eggshells with Trump. But with Obama or Clinton? You’d have to.”
That sentiment echoes the frustrations of millions of Americans who feel silenced by political correctness and the aggressive tone of today’s far-left agenda.
The Man vs. the Media Narrative
Reflecting on the evening, Maher admitted he was taken aback. “I went into the mine, and what I found down there wasn’t a madman. It was a guy playing a role for television.”
While Maher made it clear he hasn’t suddenly become a conservative, he concluded with a message likely to resonate with many Americans:
“Trump was gracious and measured. I don’t know why that version isn’t seen more often, but that’s what I witnessed. And no—I wasn’t high.”
Why This Story Matters for America in 2025
In today’s hyper-polarized climate, where honest conversation is often replaced by name-calling and censorship, stories like this one matter. When even fierce critics can acknowledge moments of character, leadership, and civility, it should serve as a reminder: there’s more to President Trump than the media wants you to believe.