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HBO condemns ‘inexcusable’ Bill Maher remark

HBO on Saturday condemned its host Bill Maher’s “inexcusable and tasteless” use of a racial slur the previous night.

“Bill Maher’s comment last night was completely inexcusable and tasteless,” HBO said in a statement. “We are removing his deeply offensive comment from any subsequent airings of the show.”

The comedian had Sen. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.) on his show “Real Time with Bill Maher” Friday when he joked he was a house slave. The comment came in response to Sasse joking he wanted Maher to work in the fields in Nebraska.

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“I’ve got to get to Nebraska more,” Maher replied. 
 
“You’re welcome. We’d love to have you work in the fields with us,” said Sasse. 
 
“Work in the fields? Senator, I’m a house n–ga,” Maher responded.

While Sasse did not respond during his appearance, he condemned Maher’s slur afterwards on Twitter, saying “free speech comes with a responsibility.” 

Criticism against Maher is mounting, with some calling for HBO to fire the comedian.