Bill Maher draws audience groans with Ariana Grande weight joke

During a recent episode of "Real Time With Bill Maher," comedian Bill Maher drew mixed reactions and audible groans from his studio audience following jokes regarding Ariana Grande's weight.

In his opening monologue, Maher initially transitioned from discussing newly released government UFO files to a joke comparing Grande's appearance to a "stick-like" figure with large eyes mentioned in the reports. While the initial quip received laughter, a follow-up comment—"Maybe that joke will make her eat something"—was met with groans from the crowd.

The remarks come amidst a period of significant public scrutiny regarding Grande's appearance. The singer recently announced she would be taking a "step back from visibility" following the conclusion of her "Eternal Sunshine" tour. Grande addressed her decision during a concert in Chicago, stating that her choice to step away from the spotlight was a "thoughtful and empowered" decision made long ago to set boundaries, rather than a reactive response to recent news.