Bill Maher Calls for End to Greek Life Amid Cornell Suit

Bill Maher used a Friday episode of Real Time to call for eliminating fraternities and sororities, arguing that Greek organizations can intensify drinking, peer pressure, hazing and mistreatment of women. He made the case while discussing a lawsuit alleging an assault at Cornell University’s Chi Phi fraternity house, but said the facts of the incident were unknown. Maher, a Cornell alumnus, described the allegations as disturbing and said similar incidents could occur anywhere fraternities operate. He argued that all-male groups can worsen harmful behavior and urged colleges to end Greek life. His comments also extended to sororities, though his remarks focused largely on fraternities. The lawsuit, brought by a woman identified as Jane Doe, alleges that seven men assaulted her at the Chi Phi house. The allegations have not been established in the reports, which say the case was reopened. Maher acknowledged that no one knew what happened, while challenging fraternity claims that their organizations build character. He said that someone deserving to be called a gentleman would not exploit a woman in such a situation. The reports say the incident is connected to October 2024.