Bill Maher Shocked by NFL ‘Toxic Masculinity’ Claim

Football has found itself at the center of plenty of political debates over the years, but Bill Maher apparently missed one of them.

During a conversation with former NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams on Maher’s Club Random podcast, guest Williams brought up a claim that some on the left have turned against the NFL, viewing the sport as an example of “toxic masculinity.” Maher was genuinely surprised by the suggestion and quickly wanted to know exactly who was saying it.

“They’re anti-NFL because of toxic masculinity. They’re anti-meat because the cows that supply the meat fart all day and that is giving us methane and killing us,” explained Williams, causing Maher to giggle, before giving him pause.

“That one I have not heard!” Maher said. “Who thinks liberals are against the NFL?”

Williams claimed he was quoting American political consultant and author James Carville — “This is one of Carville’s harangues” — who allegedly said in 2024 that the overall message coming from the Democratic Party was “too feminine.”

“So, you’ve seen that?” Maher asked Williams incredulously. “Yeah, yeah,” Williams said. “Because it’s violent?” Maher asked. “Yes, it’s toxic masculinity,” Williams told him.

According to Maher, if NFL players consent to play, there should be no complaints about the game being brutal. “I’ve watched these games. These players are happy. This is their happy place when it goes well,” Maher said. “Yes, it breaks your bones. As an adult, you have to have the right to say, ‘I get it, this could f**k me up. Later in life, it will not be as good. I don’t care. That’s my choice. To do it now.'”

Maher pushed back on the idea that the violence of football should be enough to turn people against the sport, arguing that NFL players understand the physical risks that come with playing at the highest level. For him, the decision ultimately comes down to personal choice — even when that choice could have consequences years later.