John Oliver’s Bizarre Auction Fights Public Broadcasting Cuts

John Oliver is selling his show’s strangest props. The “Last Week Tonight” host launched an online auction on November 17, 2025. It is called “John Oliver’s Junk.”

The sale aims to raise emergency funds for public broadcasting. This follows a devastating $1.1 billion federal budget cut. The auction runs through November 24.

Why This Unusual Auction Is Happening Now

Public media faces an unprecedented financial crisis. The federal government slashed funding earlier this year. This put over 100 local stations at risk of closure.

Oliver dedicated his final 2025 episode to this issue. He explained the severe impact of the cuts. Rural and tribal communities will be disproportionately affected.

He decided to auction items accumulated over 12 seasons. The goal is direct financial support. All proceeds go to the Public Media Bridge Fund.

A Look Inside the Eccentric Items for Bid

The auction features 65 unique lots. A standout item is an original 1987 Bob Ross painting. Bidding for it started at over $51,000.

Another notable item is Russell Crowe’s jockstrap. Oliver’s team previously purchased it for a segment. A gold-plated sculpture of President LBJ’s scrotum is also available.

Bidders can even win a chance to meet John Oliver in person. The collection showcases the show’s long history of creative stunts. Each item tells a story from the program.

The Broader Impact on American Communities

The funding loss threatens more than just television shows. Public broadcasting is a critical news source in many areas. In nine U.S. counties, it is the only local news provider.

Stations also provide vital emergency alerts. They broadcast in numerous languages for diverse communities. Their investigative reporting holds local power to account.

America spends less than $2 per person on public media. Other developed nations invest nearly $100 per capita. The cuts will create significant information deserts.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the purpose of John Oliver’s auction?

The auction raises money for public broadcasting stations. These stations face closure due to federal funding cuts. All proceeds support the Public Media Bridge Fund.

When does the John Oliver auction end?

Bidding closes on November 24, 2025. The auction is hosted online. Interested parties must bid before the deadline.

What is the most valuable item in the auction?

An original Bob Ross painting is the highest-value item. Its bidding started above $51,000. Other unique props are also available.

How many stations are at risk from the funding cuts?

At least 115 stations are in danger. They serve an estimated 43 million Americans. Many could close by mid-2026 without help.

Why did public broadcasting funding get cut?

Congress approved a $1.1 billion reduction to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The decision was part of a larger budget bill. Critics of public media often allege political bias.

Where can I bid on John Oliver’s auction items?

The auction is hosted on the Public Media Bridge Fund website. You can view all items and place bids there. The platform manages the entire process.