John Oliver Alters Last Week Tonight Format in Light of ‘Horrific’ Israel-Palestine Developments
In an unusually somber opening, the comedian expressed, 'I'm not particularly inclined to tell jokes at this moment.'
John Oliver altered the format of his show, Last Week Tonight, in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
On Sunday, 15th October, the comedian addressed the “horrific” news in an unusual serious cold open, explaining to viewers why he would not be delving into the topic extensively in the main segment of the latest episode.
On Saturday, 7th October, the Palestinian militant group Hamas initiated its most extensive attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of over 1,000 lives.
In retaliation, Israel has enforced a “total siege” on Gaza, mandating evacuations in anticipation of an anticipated ground incursion. Advocacy groups have cautioned that this action could potentially be classified as a war crime if carried out. More than a million people have fled their homes amid diminishing water supplies and the imminent collapse of hospitals.
“Hey there, it’s me,” Oliver began in the five-minute-long cold open that aired before the theme tune played at the start of the episode.
“The show hasn’t officially begun yet. I mean, obviously, I’m already speaking to you. But before the music, the lights, and theoretically, the laughter – I wanted to briefly talk to you about what has undoubtedly been an awful week.”
He continued, “The immense suffering in Israel and Gaza has been deeply distressing to witness, and we won’t be addressing it extensively in the main part of our show tonight for a couple of reasons.
“Firstly, it’s horrifying. I’m not inclined to make jokes about such devastation right now. And I’m fairly certain that you don’t want to hear them either.
“And secondly, we’re recording this on Saturday afternoon. By the time you watch it on Sunday night or Monday morning, I’m assuming it’ll be through an illicit VPN. I do know my audience.”
Oliver went on to highlight the swift pace of change in the current situation, emphasizing how a segment on this topic could swiftly become outdated within mere hours.
He then offered his broad perspective, stating, “The prevailing sentiment right now is one of profound sorrow. The images we’ve witnessed from last Saturday onwards have been truly heart-wrenching – with thousands now tragically lost in Israel and Gaza. This is a devastating situation, not only for those directly affected in the region but also for diaspora communities around the globe.
“Regardless of one’s thoughts on the historical context or the present state of affairs, witnessing grieving families should stir deep emotions. So, this week has been marked by sorrow, and understandably, fear also looms large – fear of further attacks in Israel, of individuals held captive, and apprehension about the future in Gaza. Israel’s leaders appear resolute in pursuing an intensive bombing campaign, resulting in widespread displacement and the potential for a ground invasion.”
Turning to Israel’s response to the Hamas assaults, Oliver voiced, “As you watch this, the situation in Gaza might have evolved. However, all indications are pointing towards an impending humanitarian catastrophe. Israeli authorities have announced intentions to sever vital supplies like food, water, fuel, and electricity. Hospitals are relying on backup generators. This bears all the hallmarks of collective punishment, constituting a war crime.
“I believe that many Israelis and Palestinians are currently experiencing justified anger. This isn’t solely directed at Hamas, whose abhorrent terrorist acts set off this chain of events, but also towards the zealots and extremists on all sides who have consistently obstructed peace efforts over the years. Time and time again, both Israelis and Palestinians have been let down by their leaders. Presently, I have limited confidence in the current leadership’s ability to guide us towards peace.”
