John Oliver has taken aim at President Trump’s Freedom 250 concert series, a celebration of America’s 250th birthday, during the opening of his HBO show 'Last Week Tonight.' The comedian mocked the initial lineup, which included acts like Vanilla Ice, C+C Music Factory, and Milli Vanilli, describing it as 'a stacked lineup of people that you haven’t thought about since 2009.' He joked that it sounded 'less like America’s 250th birthday and more like the playlist at Rhonda’s 50th.'
The Freedom 250 concert series, scheduled from June 25 to July 10 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., was initially planned as a nonpartisan event by the congressional nonprofit America250. However, the Trump-aligned group Freedom 250 took over during Trump’s second term, politicizing the celebrations. Oliver noted that for $1 million, donors could gain access to Trump, and as the political slant became clear, many acts began to pull out.
Rapper Young MC, R&B groups Morris Day and the Time and The Commodores, country star Martina McBride, and Bret Michaels all withdrew from the concert series. Trump responded with a late-night rant on Truth Social, calling the artists 'overpriced singers, who nobody wants to hear.' Oliver quipped that Vanilla Ice did not pull out, adding, 'which I do realize sounds like the answer to the question, ‘Why does that baby have frosted tips?’'
Oliver also highlighted that some remaining acts are not as expected. For instance, neither of the C’s in C+C Music Factory will perform; only rapper Freedom Williams will appear, after initially considering backing out. Williams explained his decision in a seven-minute video made while using the bathroom. The Freedom 250 celebrations also include a UFC series, an IndyCar race, and a Times Square ball drop.
Oliver noted that despite cancellations, attractions like a 110-foot Ferris wheel and screenings of 'National Treasure' and its sequel will proceed, bringing what he called 'a real ‘substitute teacher doesn’t give a fuck’ energy.' He joked that he wouldn't be surprised if the Ferris wheel itself pulled out, citing divisive politics.
