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John Oliver Renews HBO Deal For One Year
John Oliver has agreed a one-year extension with HBO, ensuring that Last Week Tonight will remain on air through the end of 2027. The unusually short renewal departs from his previous three-year agreements and comes amid uncertainty surrounding Paramount’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO’s owner.
Last Week Tonight is currently in its 13th season and is due to run until November. Oliver, who has often satirised HBO’s corporate owners on the programme, previously joked about Paramount becoming a new “business daddy” after its reported $110 billion deal for Warner Bros. Discovery; the transaction faces lawsuits and has not yet been completed.
In short
- John Oliver renews Last Week Tonight through 2027.
- The HBO extension is for only one year.
- Corporate takeover uncertainty may have influenced the shorter deal.
Explained simply
HBO is a US television network and streaming service owned by Warner Bros. Discovery, a large entertainment company. Last Week Tonight is a weekly programme hosted by British comedian John Oliver, combining comedy with detailed reports on public issues.
Warner Bros. Discovery is facing a proposed takeover by Paramount, another major media company. The deal has not been completed, and its future is uncertain; changes in ownership can affect how television programmes are funded and run.