William "Bill" Maher, Jr.(pron-en?m?r; born January 20, 1956) is an American (United States) stand-up comedian (Stand-up comedy), television host (Presenter), social critic (Social criticism), political commentator (pundit (expert)), author, and actor. Before his current role as the host of HBOs Real Time with Bill Maher, Maher hosted a similar late-night (Late night television in the United States) talk show called Politically Incorrect originally on Comedy Central and later on ABC (American Broadcasting Company).

Maher is known for his political satire and sociopolitical commentary. His commentaries target a wide swath of topics: religion, politics, bureaucracies (bureaucracy) of many kinds, political correctness, the mass media, greed among people and persons in positions of high political and social power, the lack of intellectual curiosity of the electorate among many topics. He supports the legalization of marijuana (cannabis (drug)) and gay marriage (Same-sex marriage) and serves on the board of PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). He is also a critic (Criticism of religion) of religion and is an advisory board member of Project Reason. Maher is number 38 on Comedy Centrals 100 greatest stand-ups of all time.