Last Week Tonight

Definition

'Last Week Tonight' is a weekly satirical news program that premiered in 2014, hosted by John Oliver. The show combines comedy with in-depth investigative journalism, addressing current events and social issues through a humorous lens. Its unique format has contributed to the evolution of television by merging entertainment with serious commentary, influencing how audiences engage with news and information in the modern media landscape.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Last Week Tonight' has received numerous awards, including multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Variety Talk Series, highlighting its critical acclaim.
2. The show's use of multimedia, including animations and graphics, enhances storytelling and keeps viewers engaged with complex topics.
3. John Oliver often dedicates segments to specific issues, such as net neutrality or political corruption, allowing for deep dives into subjects that may be overlooked by traditional news outlets.
4. The program's signature style includes humor combined with strong calls to action, prompting viewers to engage in advocacy or support social movements.
5. The success of 'Last Week Tonight' has inspired a new generation of comedic news shows that blend entertainment with serious discourse, reshaping audience expectations for late-night programming.

Review Questions

• How does 'Last Week Tonight' utilize satire to engage audiences with important social issues?
  • 'Last Week Tonight' employs satire by presenting serious topics through humor and wit, making complex issues more accessible to viewers. By using comedic elements, the show can dissect political and social matters in a way that resonates with a broad audience. This approach encourages viewers to think critically about the subjects discussed while still being entertained, effectively increasing awareness of critical issues.
• What impact has 'Last Week Tonight' had on the landscape of late-night television and its role in shaping public discourse?
  • 'Last Week Tonight' has significantly impacted late-night television by blending traditional comedic formats with rigorous investigative journalism. This unique combination has set a new standard for how late-night shows approach current events, moving beyond celebrity interviews to tackle pressing societal concerns. As a result, audiences have come to expect more substantial content that not only entertains but also informs and encourages civic engagement.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of 'Last Week Tonight' in promoting social change through its investigative segments and calls to action.
  • 'Last Week Tonight' has proven effective in promoting social change by raising awareness about critical issues and encouraging viewer participation. The show's investigative segments often highlight underreported topics, prompting viewers to consider their significance in broader societal contexts. Moreover, Oliver's passionate calls to action often result in measurable outcomes, such as increased donations to relevant causes or policy changes influenced by viewer engagement, illustrating the program's ability to leverage humor for meaningful impact.

Related terms

Satire: 'A genre of literature and performing arts that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, society, or politics.'

Late Night Television: 'A television programming format that features talk shows typically broadcast after regular evening programming, known for their comedic content and celebrity interviews.'

Investigative Journalism: 'A type of journalism that seeks to uncover hidden information and provide in-depth analysis on important issues, often involving significant research and fact-checking.'