John Oliver Auctioning Props for Public Media During Show Hiatus

John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight Takes Hiatus, Launches $1 Million Public Media Rescue Auction

John Oliver’s Emmy-winning show is going on an extended break. Last Week Tonight will not return with new episodes until February 2026. The announcement came during the season 12 finale on November 16, 2025.

Oliver used the finale to launch an unprecedented fundraising effort. He revealed an auction of 65 bizarre show props to save public media. The campaign responds to recent congressional funding cuts.

John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight

The Finale’s Big Reveal

Oliver confirmed the show’s return date during the season’s final episode. The HBO program will pause after its current run ends. Production will resume in early 2026 for season 13.

But the host didn’t just announce a vacation. He declared a creative response to a serious problem. Congress eliminated $1.1 billion in public broadcasting funding for the next two years.

Oliver decided to fight back with humor and purpose. He created “John Oliver’s Junk” as his official auction website. The collection includes years of accumulated show memorabilia.

The Million-Dollar Mission

The auction’s centerpiece is an original Bob Ross painting. “Cabin at Sunset” was created by the legendary artist in 1987. Its estimated value approaches $1 million.

Bob Ross, Inc. made a rare exception for this cause. They allowed one of their preserved paintings to be auctioned for charity. The piece had been in storage for nearly four decades.

Other unusual items include Russell Crowe’s Cinderella Man jockstrap. A giant sculpture of LBJ’s testicles. Even a bidet signed by Gwar’s lead singer.

The auction runs through November 24, 2025. All proceeds benefit the Public Media Bridge Fund. This nonprofit distributes emergency funding to struggling stations.

Why Public Media Needs Rescue

The funding cuts threaten stations across America. Public broadcasting reaches 99% of the US population. It operates through 1,500 locally managed stations.

Analysis suggests 115 stations could close by mid-2026. This would affect 43 million Americans. Rural and tribal communities face the greatest risk.

Some stations lost over 50% of their budgets overnight. One New Mexico station saw a 96% funding reduction. The impact extends beyond cultural programming.

These stations provide emergency alerts during hurricanes. They cover local news in media deserts. Nine counties rely on them as their only news source.

John Oliver’s Last Week Tonight auction represents more than celebrity memorabilia—it’s a creative lifeline for public media infrastructure that serves millions. The success of this unusual fundraiser could determine whether communities keep their local stations operating through the funding crisis.

Thought you’d like to know

When does Last Week Tonight return with new episodes?

The show returns in February 2026. This follows the conclusion of season 12 in November 2025. The break allows the team to prepare for season 13.

What is the most valuable item in John Oliver’s auction?

An original Bob Ross painting valued at approximately $1 million. “Cabin at Sunset” was created in 1987. It represents the auction’s highlight item.

How many public broadcasting stations are at risk?

Analysts estimate 115 stations could close by mid-2026. The congressional cuts removed $1.1 billion in funding. This affects 43 million Americans.

Where does the auction money go?

All proceeds benefit the Public Media Bridge Fund. This nonprofit distributes emergency funding to stations. Money goes directly where needed most.

Can people donate without bidding?

Yes, viewers can donate directly to stations through adoptation.org. The website helps supporters find local stations in need. Every donation makes a difference.

How long has Last Week Tonight been on air?

The show premiered on HBO in April 2014. It has run for 12 seasons as of 2025. The program has won multiple Emmy Awards.