John Oliver is staying put. HBO has renewed Last Week Tonight through 2027. This contract extension keeps the show on air while the media industry navigates a prospective merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery.
The acquisition remains on hold. Pending antitrust lawsuits from state attorneys general and the WGA have forced a delay. The deadline for this potential deal is currently set for June 1, 2027.
When asked about the uncertainty surrounding his corporate ownership, Oliver maintains a posture of total denial. He noted that corporate rhetoric before a merger often differs from behavior after the deal closes. He intends to proceed with his work without factoring in the unpredictable corporate shifts.
Oliver stated that his approach is to make it clear he will not be amenable to creative changes regardless of who owns the network. He remains focused on the show, though he jokes that if the situation fails, he has a backup plan in the world of daytime soap operas.