The Chaser's Chas Licciardello and the ABC's John Barron set out to discover the real America - its politics and its people - with US and Australian experts coming along for the ride.The Chaser's Chas Licciardello and the ABC's John Barron set out to discover the real America - its politics and its people - with US and Australian experts coming along for the ride.The Chaser's Chas Licciardello and the ABC's John Barron set out to discover the real America - its politics and its people - with US and Australian experts coming along for the ride.
Browse episodes
Featured reviews
Although the premise of this program is well intentioned, the excitable presentation of Chas spoils it - swallowing words, turning away from the camera to give unintelligible asides to John, rushing through his words thus making it impossible to read the accompanying text on the screen, applying his personal feelings as if he's in a play on the stage instead of a steady, lower key chat - his diction is appalling and very difficult to understand. Shame because he no doubt has some good points of view and is obviously intelligent. By comparison, John is measured and provides the reason for watching the show.
Love the show, however, we must continually must turn the sound level up and then turn the sound level back down several times during each show. This is because Chas tends to swallow some words or lean in or out of the boom microphone range or turn off camera making the volume of his voice vacillate widely. A similar scenario occurs with the clips of some people being interviewed. Their voices also vacillate widely and make it difficult to understand them. It would be nice if all sound bites had a similar sound level. Please edit accordingly so that we can continue to enjoy this delightful show.
This is astute comedic political commentary done in a specific style, and is not to everyone's tastes, but it does gives a bipartisan take on the world of American politics (read: Trump's America).
If you are a regular on Fox, this won't be your bag - but it also isn't a liberal satire like what Samantha Bee does. This is much more subtle, there's no name calling here. Honestly, the two presenters are ABC Australia regulars and seeing them riffing is a good reason to watch the show alone - however Planet America could be a lot better, but it is a (fairly) young show u can see the show has tried different ideas, to varying degrees of success. But when they stick to astute and observant comedy they are in their best element.
Recommended
10Carl-924
ABC's Planet America continues to distinguish itself as a premier source for insightful and balanced coverage of U. S.politics from an Australian perspective. Hosted by Chas Licciardello and John Barron, the program consistently demonstrates a high standard of critical thinking-prioritising facts, context, and evidence over sensationalism or partisan spin. Tonight's episode (April 30, 2025) exemplified this commitment. The hosts delved into President Trump's first 100 days in office, scrutinising the administration's actions and the resulting shifts in public opinion, as reflected in recent polls. They also examined the escalating immigration crackdown, including the arrest of a judge, and discussed a disgraced Congressman's plea for a presidential pardon to avoid jail time. In line with their dedication to presenting diverse perspectives, Chas and John welcomed Republican strategist Ford O'Connell to the program. His insights provided a valuable counterpoint to the discussions, ensuring that viewers were exposed to a broad spectrum of viewpoints. In an era where political discourse is often polarised, Planet America stands out for its unwavering commitment to evidence-based analysis and inclusive dialogue. Chas and John's ability to dissect complex issues with clarity and a touch of humour makes the show both informative and engaging. For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of American politics, Planet America is essential viewing.
P. A. is a top political show,informative and funny...with great interviews...the show is at it's best when it is balanced, however it does sway to the left often,especially John,as Chas rescues, thank goodness and rationalises topics. However ,Chas ,you were so biased and way out of line with one really important fact in the recent Kyle Rittenhouse case. Why were you so adamant in disputing the fact Grosskreutz was not pointing his gun at KR when it was so clear from all angles and moments of time he was, when KR shot?? The 2nd still picture you so enthusiastly pointed out was not relevant at ALL....did you see where KR's gun was pointing in this frame???..It was at his feet...Many angles clearly did show him pointing the gun which you seem to have overlooked. You were so disappointing Chas in attempting to suggest you were on a winner, hopelessly attempting to suggest guilt...All in the name of your left democratic slant. I am a fan of yours Chas,however you need to retract this misjudgement in your next show. Please do on behalf of many who questioned your waywardtheory...so the basic facts can prevail.
Please stay as balanced with left and right as possible Chas,keep John in check and your show will become legendary.
Regards John Connors,Wollongong.
Please stay as balanced with left and right as possible Chas,keep John in check and your show will become legendary.
Regards John Connors,Wollongong.
Did you know
- TriviaThe first episode of this Australian television series about American politics was broadcast in Australia on 10th February 2012.
Details
Contribute to this page
Suggest an edit or add missing content