Paul Anka Discusses Soviet-Era Communism on Bill Maher’s Show

Singer Paul Anka shared his experiences of performing in Eastern Europe during the Cold War, highlighting the failures of Soviet-era communism. Appearing on Bill Maher’s ‘Club Random,’ Anka contrasted these experiences with the freedom and prosperity he found in America.

Anka described his performances in Poland and Czechoslovakia, recalling the challenging conditions. ‘We check in a hotel, one bathroom for the whole floor, no room service, and it’s dark and bleak,’ Anka recalled.

Bill Maher criticized modern sympathy for communism, particularly among younger generations. ‘It makes me frustrated when kids today show sympathy for communism because they aren’t taught history,’ Maher said. Anka’s memories of shortages emphasized Maher’s critique.

Anka recounted the severe shortages in Poland and Czechoslovakia, noting how he and his band left behind their clothes. ‘I’d come home in both countries and see lines around the block for toothpaste, food, a T-shirt. We left everything we brought,’ Anka said.

Discussing his journey to Poland, Anka explained that it began after meeting the country’s president on a flight. He later received an invitation to perform there, a request facilitated by the State Department.

Anka recalled learning of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination while in Poland. ‘I heard it on Radio Free Europe. I started crying and had to leave the country,’ Anka said. He informed the audience of his departure, promising to return eventually.

In Czechoslovakia, Anka engaged in discussions about communism with a local woman. She later contacted him for assistance following the Soviet-led invasion of her country. Anka helped her daughter pursue an education by sending money.