Bill Maher Appears as Satan in Hollywood Hell House

In 2004, comedian Bill Maher took on the role of Satan in the theatrical production 'Hollywood Hell House' at The Steve Allen Theater. This unique performance served as a satirical take on the concept of Christian-run hell houses, which are designed to instill fear in teenagers and encourage them to embrace Christianity. The show was a faithful reproduction of an evangelistic scare experience originally crafted by Reverend Keenan Roberts. It aimed to highlight the absurdity of using fear as a tool for conversion. 'Hollywood Hell House' featured a rotating cast of over 160 celebrities, including notable names such as Andy Richter, Richard Belzer, Dave Thomas, Traci Lords, Craig Bierko, Sarah Silverman, and Julia Sweeney. Maher's portrayal of Satan added a humorous twist to the production, making it a memorable commentary on religious practices and societal norms. The show not only entertained but also provoked thought about the methods used in religious evangelism, making it a significant cultural event in the early 2000s.