Bill Maher hosts guests and addresses Dolly Parton's death on Real Time

The August 28, 2026, episode of HBO’s ‘Real Time with Bill Maher’ features a guest lineup including Wesleyan University President Michael S. Roth, journalist Molly Jong-Fast, and Florida Republican gubernatorial nominee Rep. Byron Donalds. The program includes a one-on-one interview with Roth and a panel discussion with the other guests.

During the episode, Maher addressed the recent death of country music icon Dolly Parton, who passed away at age 80 following a battle with cancer. Maher commented on the global tributes following her passing, noting various landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Sphere in Las Vegas that were decorated in her honor.