S Poddar
The Emmys set this year highlighted John Oliver’s triumph with “Last Week Tonight” in the Outstanding Scripted Variety Series category, but his heartfelt acceptance speech was what truly stole the show. As Oliver took the stage to celebrate his victory over “Saturday Night Live,” his speech took a poignant turn when he began honoring his family’s recently passed dog.
Oliver’s tribute began with a note that was personal, “In particular, I want to thank the silly odd dog,” he shared. “We have the most fantastic dog, and she was at our wedding, and she got us through the pandemic. She was with us for two pregnancies…
But just as Oliver had been recalling his favorite pet, the familiar orchestral music had begun to play and had led him to wind up his speech. With a bit of humour and a smile on his face Oliver quipped, “Perfect choice of music.” He continued, “We had to say goodbye to her. I feel like Sarah McLachlan right now. She was such an amazing dog.”
Despite the volume being magnified, Oliver composed himself and seized the chance to further elaborate on the tribute. “This isn’t just for her. This is for all dogs,” he exclaimed as the room was filled with applause. “All dogs, you are all very good girls. You are all very good boys. You all deserve a treat. Play me off now! Thanks so much.”.
But it was funny, and it was heartwarming, testifying again to Oliver’s only gift of combining humor with sincerity, even when he was dispatched offstage. His show, “Last Week Tonight,” is now in its 11th season on HBO, with a total of 30 Emmys since it started in 2014.
Earlier Sunday night, Oliver chatted with Variety about his future on the show. Discussing post-election survival, he observed that losing Donald Trump as a talking point may not be such a big loss. “If Trump doesn’t win, I don’t lose any material that I’m not happy to throw overboard,” Oliver said. The whole ‘he’s been a gift to comedy’ — it’s not a gift any of us really wanted and we’re happy to return it for store credit down the line.
He admitted there was uncertainty and more to come. “The election is going to be very, very close,” he said. “If Trump loses, he’s not going to accept it, making the fact that it’s going to be that close more ridiculous. It’s going to be bumpy. It’s going to be close and historically he’s not handled loss well. If you’re not concerned, then you haven’t been watching. There’s plenty to be concerned about.
Again, Oliver struck the right balance between comedy and serious themes, and not surprisingly, his Emmys speech entertained the audience as well as the viewers in a funny tribute.
