Bill Maher received a noticeably mixed response from his studio audience after making a joke about Ariana Grande’s appearance during a recent episode of Real Time With Bill Maher.
During his opening monologue, Maher was discussing newly released UFO material when he compared one unusual sighting to Grande’s appearance. The first remark drew laughter and applause from the crowd, but the reaction changed when he followed it with a comment suggesting the joke might encourage the singer to eat something. Audience members responded with audible groans.
The moment comes as Grande continues to face public discussion about her appearance. The pop star has addressed body commentary several times in the past, asking people to avoid making assumptions about someone’s health based solely on how they look.
Grande has also recently announced plans to reduce her public visibility after completing her current touring commitments. She has described the decision as part of setting personal boundaries following an extended period of music, film and promotional work.
Maher continued his monologue after briefly responding to the audience’s reaction.