Neil Grabowsky, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Why we think John Oliver is a Type 7
Demeanor. His demeanor is enthusiastic and passionate. He uses a lot of animated facial expressions and hand gestures to deliver his monologues. Oliver has a distinctive, sometimes self-deprecating, sense of humor. He is not afraid to show indignation or frustration about the topics he covers, often resorting to dramatic and humorous outbursts to underscore his points. His quick wit and ability to convey complex topics in a relatable way are central to his persona. He’s always the funnyman even when it gets serious.
Using humor as a way to deal with heavy topics. Oliver often uses humor as a tool to deal with serious, often disheartening stories, which is a way of reframing painful realities in a more palatable, comedic light. For instance, he has used mascots like "Jeff the Diseased Lung in a Cowboy Hat" to highlight the seriousness of tobacco industry malpractices in a humorously memorable way.
Enthusiasm and variety. Oliver's show, Last Week Tonight, covers a wide range of topics, from the seemingly mundane to the highly serious. His ability to inject enthusiasm and humor into each topic shows his penchant for high energy and positivity.
Fearless and unapologetic. Oliver is unafraid to speak out on controversial topics, often doing so without apology. For instance, Oliver had a 20-minute rant aimed at then-President Donald Trump right before the 2016 elections, and the segment was labeled, "Make Donald Drumpf Again," a critique filled with unfiltered and straightforward speech. As another example, in a run-in with Dustin Hoffman during a panel discussion, Oliver did not shy away from addressing serious accusations of sexual misconduct made against the actor. This tense yet pivotal moment reflects Oliver's conviction and fearlessness in tackling tough issues, even when it could result in backlash (this speaks to his 8 Wing).
John Oliver quotes that show he is a Type 7
"I like nonsense; it wakes up the brain cells."
“I’m British, so obviously I repress any powerful emotions of any kind in relation to anything.”
"It's so disappointing when something is a letdown, isn't it? It's the reason I will never go to space."
"We have always tried to pitch stories that we think are interesting, have something ridiculous about them and are slightly off the grid."
“Net neutrality: The only two words that promise more boredom in the English language are ‘featuring Sting…’”
“I find it hard in my general life to think further than the week ahead.”
“I think puns are not just the lowest form of wit, but the lowest form of human behavior.”