Bad Bill The Man Behind Popular ‘Polictically Incorrect’ Takes His Solo Show On The Road

Thu., Sept. 25, 1997

By Jim Kershner jimkershner@comcast.net

Here’s your chance to see Bill Maher being politically incorrect, all by himself.

He won’t be surrounded by a panel of guests as he is on his provocative and surprisingly popular ABC show, “Politically Incorrect.” When he comes to the Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum in Pullman on Saturday, he’ll be working solo, just like the old days.

Maher began his career as a standup comic in the New York comedy club scene back in the early ‘80s. His act, already salted with plenty of political humor, was moderately successful - good enough to get him booked on Carson and Letterman, and to get his own HBO specials.

However, Maher didn’t truly hit his stride until he came up with the “Politically Incorrect” format for the Comedy Central cable channel. His quick wit and irreverent attitude toward politics made him the perfect host for this show, which became a surprise hit. It moved to ABC in January, and has proven to be a formidable challenger to Leno and Letterman.

On Saturday, Maher won’t be entirely alone. He’ll be preceded by an opening act, singer Janet McLaughlin. McLaughlin is described as an “acoustic rock artist,” who has played at clubs, festivals and colleges all over the country. She recently opened the Indigo Girls tour.

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color photo

MEMO: Tickets for this 8 p.m. show are $15, available at the Beasley Box Office, Ticket Express and at all G&B Select-a-Seat outlets, or by calling 325-SEAT or 1-800-325-SEAT.

Tickets for this 8 p.m. show are $15, available at the Beasley Box Office, Ticket Express and at all G&B; Select-a-Seat outlets, or by calling 325-SEAT or 1-800-325-SEAT.