During his 11 seasons hosting “Last Week Tonight,” John Oliver has encountered some truly bizarre and memorable moments. In a recent appearance on “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” Oliver reflected on some of the weirdest experiences he’s had on the show.
One standout moment for Oliver was when he had the opportunity to interview the Dalai Lama. The interview took place at the top of a mountain in India, surrounded by monks. Oliver couldn’t help but feel a mix of awe and excitement, knowing he was about to engage with such a prominent figure. It was a truly amazing moment that highlighted the unique opportunities that come with hosting a talk show.
Another unforgettable encounter was with the late Stephen Hawking. Oliver described Hawking as a funny and brilliant individual, and the interview was conducted through email due to Hawking’s condition. When Hawking responded with humor and a smile, it was a proud and gratifying moment for Oliver. These instances showcase the unexpected connections and lightheartedness that can arise during a talk show.
However, the weirdest moments for Oliver often occur outside the show itself. He shared a story about a joke they made about the city of Danbury, which caused offense to the mayor. In retaliation, the mayor named a sewer plant after Oliver. While it may seem absurd, Oliver found it hilarious and appreciated the comedian’s ability to spark unexpected reactions, even if they were unconventional.
But perhaps the most outlandish moment was when Oliver purchased Russell Crowe‘s jockstrap from the movie “Cinderella Man” in an online divorce auction. Oliver then used the proceeds from the purchase to open the John Oliver Koala Chlamydia Award at the Sydney Zoo, which continues to treat koalas affected by the disease. It’s an unusual endeavor, but it brings attention to a real problem and showcases Oliver’s penchant for creative and unexpected acts of charity.
Throughout his tenure on “Last Week Tonight,” Oliver has learned to embrace the bizarre moments that arise both on and off the show. While the circumstances may be unconventional, they allow for unique connections and experiences that separate “Last Week Tonight” from other talk shows. Oliver’s ability to find humor and meaning in the unexpected is a testament to his talent and the enduring appeal of the show.
“Last Week Tonight” airs on Sundays on HBO, offering viewers a blend of insightful commentary and offbeat entertainment. With Oliver at the helm, audiences can always expect the unexpected and enjoy the wild ride that is “Last Week Tonight.”
