Comedian and host John Oliver has launched a unique fundraiser by auctioning off what he describes as ‘junk’ from his popular show, Last Week Tonight, to benefit public broadcasting. The initiative, announced last week, aims to raise funds for organisations committed to supporting unbiased journalism and independent programming.
In a quirky, typically Oliver style, the host shared that the items up for bidding include props, memorabilia, and other quirky artifacts from the show’s history. The auction has already garnered significant attention on social media, with fans and collectors eager to own a piece of television history.
Oliver emphasized that the proceeds from the auction will go toward helping public broadcasters maintain their independence amid increasing financial pressures. “This is about supporting the kind of journalism that holds power to account, even if it means selling off a few costumes or scripts,” Oliver stated in a video message.
The auction, which is set to run through the end of the month, features a range of items, including a replica of Oliver’s ‘Giant Head’ costume and signed scripts from recent episodes. The comedian noted that the effort reflects his ongoing commitment to funding the crucial role public media plays in a functioning democracy.
As public broadcasting faces ongoing funding challenges and political pressures worldwide, Oliver’s campaign highlights the power of celebrity-led initiatives to support free, independent journalism. Fans and supporters are encouraged to bid generously, with many looking forward to owning a tangible piece of the show that’s become a staple of political satire and investigative journalism.
The auction’s success could serve as a model for similar campaigns by other content creators seeking to preserve public media in an era of financial austerity, emphasizing the importance of community and individual contributions to sustaining quality journalism.
