Bill Maher Parts Ways with Reps at CAA

Bill Maher Fires CAA: The Unexpected Move

Renowned host of HBO’s Real Time, Bill Maher, reportedly decided to part ways with Creative Artists Agency (CAA) on Monday. Maher, who had been represented by CAA for over two decades, took this strong stance after being excluded from CEO Bryan Lourd’s exclusive Oscar party, which had taken place on Saturday night at Lourd’s private residence.

The Oscar Party Snub that Angered Maher

Sources familiar with the situation indicate that Maher was deeply disturbed by the apparent snub from Lourd’s gathering. The event coincided with the Motion Picture & Television Fund’s Night Before celebration, drawing prominent figures from the industry.

The highly-anticipated party, hosted by Lourd, amassed an impressive guest list, including J.J. Abrams, Barry Diller, Kamala Harris, Margot Robbie, Bob Iger, and more. Several CAA clients such as Julia Roberts and Jennifer Aniston were also in attendance, according to industry newsletter Puck. Maher’s discontent stemmed from not being included in this exclusive affair.

Building Tension: Maher’s Nigh Before Oscar Party Appearance

Interestingly, Lourd’s intimate gathering was preceded by another CAA event, where nominees like Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and Jodie Foster were celebrated. The celebrated party was held at Sunset Tower, while Maher attended WME’s Oscar party at Hearst Estate in Beverly Hills. The sequence of events appears to have further fueled Maher’s frustration.

A Sudden End to a Long Professional Relationship

Steven Lafferty, head of television at CAA, was Maher’s representative at the agency. The news of Maher parting ways with CAA follows a recently negotiated two-year extension for his show, Real Time, ensuring its continuation until 2026. As one of HBO’s longest-running original series, Real Time debuted in 2003 and follows a successful 24-season run.

No official comment from Maher’s team has been made regarding his departure from CAA.