PrintSeptember 14, 2009
Bill Maher Pulls a Don Imus
Alleged comedian Bill Maher followed in the footsteps of shock jock Don Imus with a "ho" joke, this one targeting Michelle Obama.
It came in the context of Maher accusing DRUDGE of "subliminal racism" by posting a headline that read "Poll Hell: Obama Negs Rise." After trying to stretch "Negs" to represent the "n" word, provoking laughter from only a few among his audience, Maher showed several ficticious DRUDGE headlines.
One fine one displayed Michelle Obama working with a garden tool in what may have been a ceremonial tree planting. The made-up caption read "Hoein' The Garden." That provoked groans and laughter from the audience. Unlike Imus' joke, this one was clearly well-planned.
So, how does this differ from what Imus said in his infamous "nappy headed ho" statement referring to the Rutgers women's basketball team?
Can we expect outrage from the Reverend Al? (No)
CBS fired Imus. Will HBO fire Maher? (Naw)
Will Maher apologize? (Perhaps weakly, with an accompanying joke that makes light of his own apology.)
Just imagine the fallout if Larry the Cable Guy delivered Maher's joke. Or, say, Jeff Foxworthy.
