Last Week Tonight With John Oliver Season 9 Episode 4

Remember that show that makes you laugh and then suddenly feel deeply concerned about something you never knew existed? Yeah, Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. Season 9, episode 4 was no exception.

The Wild World of Water Companies

This time, John Oliver dove headfirst into something we all take for granted: water. Specifically, the private companies that deliver it to our taps. You might think, "Water, what's the big deal?" Prepare to be surprised.

Turns out, your friendly neighborhood water company might not be so friendly. We're talking about everything from astronomical price hikes to dodgy infrastructure that’s literally poisoning communities.

A River Runs...Through Their Pockets?

One of the biggest shocks was just how much profit these companies are making. While you're struggling to pay your bills, some CEOs are basically swimming in pools of money. And that's before we talk about dividends!

Oliver highlighted cases of outrageous price increases, even in areas with really, really bad water quality. Can you imagine paying more for water that tastes like dirt (or worse)?

It's a classic example of a system where profit motives can override public health and wellbeing. Yikes.

Pipes That Make You Say "Ew"

Then there's the infrastructure. Think old, leaky pipes. Really, really old. Like, "we used these when dinosaurs roamed the earth" old.

These aging pipes are not only inefficient, wasting precious water through leaks, but they can also contaminate the water supply. Lead, anyone? No thanks.

Oliver showed some truly horrifying images of corroded pipes. It’s enough to make you want to drink exclusively bottled water (which, ironically, often comes from the same sources).

The Solution? Easier Said Than Done

So, what can be done? That’s the million-dollar question (or maybe the billion-dollar question, considering the scale of the problem).

Oliver suggested a few things, including increased government oversight, investment in infrastructure upgrades, and even the possibility of public ownership. But as always, the show made it clear that there are no easy fixes.

Getting politicians to prioritize water infrastructure over, say, tax cuts for the wealthy, is an uphill battle. But hey, at least we’re talking about it, right?

The Bit That Made You Smile (Sort Of)

As always, Last Week Tonight didn't just leave us wallowing in despair. There was a glimmer of hope, and a whole lot of dark humor.

The show highlighted a few communities that are fighting back and demanding better water quality. And, of course, there was a delightfully absurd segment involving mascots and questionable corporate slogans.

After all, if you can’t laugh at the absurdity of it all, you might just cry. And nobody wants to cry over tap water. Or maybe some do.

"Sometimes, the best way to cope with a depressing reality is to make fun of it." - Probably John Oliver, at some point.

So, the next time you turn on the tap, take a moment to think about where that water is coming from. And maybe, just maybe, give your local water company a call. Ask them about those pipes.

You might be surprised by what you hear. Or maybe not. But at least you'll be informed. And slightly more paranoid.