Bill Maher

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Bill Maher will have an uncensored forum for political debate for at least two more seasons on HBO, where his viewership gross is the highest in three years. (HBO via Associated Press)

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While Bill Maher leans left politically, he gives his conservative guests on "Real Time" ample opportunity to express their views. Those who have appeared offer some survival tips. (HBO via Associated Press)

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"Real Time," hosted by Bill Maher, isn't a place to not know your stuff so come prepared to engage the other guests and defend your views, say those who have been on the show. (HBO via Associated Press)

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Comedian and television host Bill Maher, right, looks on as Hollywood Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Leron Gubler begins a ceremony to award Maher with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2010. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

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**FILE** Since the salad days of ABC's "Politically Incorrect," which minted countless right-wing pundits and best-selling authors, conservatives have rightly assessed the HBO version of the Bill Maher show as R-rated and shockingly hostile to their worldview. (Associated Press)