Bill Maher Criticizes Serena Williams for “Showing Off” in Designer Shirt at Charity Event: “Is This Philanthropy or Fashion Week?”

Outspoken HBO host Bill Maher has stirred controversy once again — this time for taking aim at tennis legend Serena Williams over what he described as an unnecessary fashion statement at a recent charity event.

During the latest episode of Real Time with Bill Maher, the comedian turned social commentator criticized Williams for wearing what he claimed was a “runway-ready designer shirt” while participating in a fundraising event aimed at supporting underprivileged youth in Chicago.

Maher’s Monologue Moment

“Now, I love Serena — she’s the GOAT, no question,” Maher began, during his Friday night segment. “But can someone explain why she’s showing up to a literacy fundraiser in a Balenciaga blouse like she’s about to accept an award at Paris Fashion Week?”

He continued, “It’s charity, not couture. I’m just saying — maybe read the room instead of dressing like you’re ready to walk it.”

The joke, delivered with Maher’s typical smirk and trademark sarcasm, landed with part of his studio audience. But outside the show, the reaction was far less amused.

Social Media Backlash

Within hours, Maher’s comments were trending for all the wrong reasons. Fans of Williams, as well as public figures and fashion insiders, quickly criticized the remarks as both sexist and shallow, pointing out the double standard in how female celebrities — particularly Black women — are scrutinized for their appearance, even in spaces centered on service.

“Let me get this straight: Serena Williams donates her time, money, and name to a cause — and Bill Maher’s takeaway is that her shirt was too nice?” posted one user on X (formerly Twitter). “Maybe the problem isn’t what she’s wearing, but that we’re still letting Bill Maher be on TV.”

Another tweet that gained traction read: “Bill Maher mocking Serena for looking good at a charity event is peak insecure energy.”

Defenders Step In

Serena Williams has not responded publicly to Maher’s comments, but those close to her, as well as fans and fellow celebrities, didn’t hesitate to push back.

“Serena shows up for communities that are often overlooked — and she does it with style, grace, and authenticity,” said close friend and actress Kerry Washington in an Instagram story. “Let’s focus on the impact, not the outfit.”

Fashion editor and activist Lola Ramsey pointed out the hypocrisy in Maher’s take: “So let me get this straight: When male billionaires show up to fundraisers in tailored suits, we call them ‘classy.’ But a powerful Black woman in a luxury blouse? Suddenly she’s showing off?”

The Bigger Conversation

The moment has reignited a broader discussion about how female celebrities — especially women of color — are policed for their style choices in contexts where their actual contributions should be the focus.

Williams, who has used her platform for years to champion causes ranging from maternal healthcare to education reform, has also become a fashion icon in her own right. With her own clothing line and a long list of designer collaborations, it’s hardly surprising that she brings her style with her — even to charity events.

“Wearing something beautiful doesn’t cancel out doing something meaningful,” wrote journalist Melissa Chen. “In Serena’s case, it amplifies it.”

Maher’s Response?

As of this writing, Maher has not responded to the backlash, nor has HBO issued a statement. The host, known for leaning into controversy, may view the reaction as par for the course. But critics argue that this particular jab missed the mark — badly.

“Serena Williams doesn’t need to tone herself down to make others comfortable,” wrote one op-ed. “She’s done more in a single afternoon for underserved youth than most of us do in a year — and she can do it in diamonds if she wants.”