Ep 6. Episode 65

Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 3 episode 6, titled Episode 65, is a satirical news program that focuses on current events and issues in politics, the media, and society as a whole. In this episode, John Oliver turns his attention to the controversial topic of abortion, discussing the recent attempts to restrict access to abortion services in several states across the U.S.

Oliver begins his segment by acknowledging the complexity of the abortion debate, stating that it is a contentious issue that divides Americans across political and ideological lines. He then dives into the recent legislative efforts by conservative lawmakers to severely limit access to abortion services, such as the Texas law that requires doctors to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals, effectively closing down many clinics.

Oliver critiques the widely-circulated narrative that these laws are meant to “protect women’s health,” arguing that they do the exact opposite by forcing women to seek unsafe and potentially life-threatening alternatives. He also examines the role of anti-abortion organizations and activists, highlighting their often misleading and false claims about the dangers of abortion and the abilities of fetuses to feel pain.

Oliver also discusses the broader implications of these laws and the potential repercussions for women’s reproductive rights in the U.S. and beyond. He points out that these restrictions are disproportionately affecting low-income women and women of color, highlighting the broader issues of economic and racial inequality that are often entwined with the abortion debate.

Throughout the episode, Oliver employs his signature style of humor and biting commentary, using clips from news broadcasts and interviews to highlight the absurdity of some of the arguments against abortion. He also includes interviews with individuals who have personally experienced the impact of restrictive abortion laws, providing a humanizing perspective on the issue.

Overall, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver season 3 episode 6 offers a thought-provoking and timely examination of a highly controversial issue. Through his trademark humor and insightful commentary, John Oliver challenges viewers to think critically about the politics and ethics of abortion, ultimately advocating for increased access and reproductive rights for women.