In a cheeky move to start off the new season of his HBO show, “Last Week Tonight,” Jon Oliver took a playful jab at Disney. The promo, released on February 18, features Oliver posing next to someone dressed as Steamboat Willie, the iconic character that entered the public domain on January 1.
Oliver’s promo poster boldly asks, “What are they gonna do, sue?” It’s a witty nod to Disney’s history of fiercely protecting its intellectual property. For decades, the company has been known for its litigious approach in safeguarding its iconic characters, including Mickey Mouse.
While it’s unclear if Oliver is planning to target Disney specifically this season, or if he’s simply taking advantage of the Steamboat Willie moment, one thing is for sure – he’s not afraid to seize the opportunity to provoke the Mouse House.
The promo caught the attention of many, including indie filmmaker who announced plans for a horror-comedy based on Mickey Mouse’s cartoon debut. In this twisted tale, a sadistic mouse torments unsuspecting ferry passengers.
The Emmy-winning “Last Week Tonight” has recently been renewed for three additional seasons, taking the show through 2026. The series, which airs on HBO, also offers streaming options on HBO Max.
With his witty and sharp commentary, Jon Oliver continues to be the public’s favorite gadfly. Whether or not Disney will be on the receiving end of his humor this season remains to be seen. One thing is certain – Oliver’s ability to blend comedy and social commentary is a trademark of his show, making it a must-watch for fans and critics alike.
Source: F5 Magazine
That’s totally compelling. Would it be ok to submit a question?