Real Time with Bill Maher Timeline ( Real )

show_premiere
February 21, 2003

Real Time with Bill Maher Premieres

The first episode of Real Time with Bill Maher airs on HBO, marking the debut of the political talk show blending comedy and serious discussion.

show_format_change
October 2007

Real Time Moves to Live Broadcasts

Real Time with Bill Maher switches from taped to live broadcasts, increasing the immediacy and topical relevance of the show.

award
September 21, 2013

Real Time with Bill Maher Wins Emmy Award

The show receives the Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series, recognizing its impact in television.

show_anniversary
February 21, 2018

Real Time with Bill Maher Celebrates 15th Anniversary

The show commemorates 15 years on air, highlighting its sustained popularity and influence in political commentary.

media_expansion
September 2019

Real Time with Bill Maher Launches Companion Podcast

The launch of the Real Time podcast extends the reach of the show’s conversations to new media platforms.

Real Time with Bill Maher Timeline ( Fictional )

show_premiere
2003-02-21

Premiere of Real Time with Bill Maher

The first episode of Real Time with Bill Maher airs, introducing its unique blend of political discussion and comedy.

segment_introduction
2003-03-07

Introduction of 'New Rules' Segment

Bill Maher begins the 'New Rules' segment, offering satirical guidelines on current events and cultural issues.

web_content_introduction
2007-05-18

First 'Overtime' Online Segment

Real Time debuts 'Overtime', an extended online segment for deeper dives into discussions and interviews.

technical_update
2010-09-24

Shift to High Definition Broadcasting

The show transitions to HD, improving visual quality for its audience.

special_episode
2016-10-14

Bill Maher Addresses 2016 Election

An entire episode focusing on the heated 2016 U.S. presidential election, featuring prominent political guests.

production_change
2020-04-10

Incorporation of Virtual Audience During Pandemic

The show adapts to the COVID-19 pandemic by including a virtual audience and remote interviews.

production_update
2021-09-17

Return to Live Studio Audience

Real Time resumes filming with a live studio audience, marking a return to traditional production methods.