Bill Maher's Ex-Girlfriend Hints He Used The N-Word Frequently

Bill Maher's former girlfriend Coco Johnsen commented on the TV host's recent use of the n-word on an episode of Real Time. The model, who had dated Maher for two years and filed a lawsuit against him for $9 million (he had promised to marry Johnsen but never did), was asked by TMZ if he used the N-word around her and she responded, "I've heard the word many times."

READ: Bill Maher Said The N-Word On The Latest Episode Of 'Real Time'

However, she never confirmed or denied that Maher was the one who said it, insinuating it was likely dropped during their relationship. "I just think that anyone who uses the N-word is insensitive...I'm sure that he's learned his lesson," she said. "Maybe some sensitivity training at the NAACP could do some use."

Johnsen also called Maher's use of the word "condescending, sad and disappointing," adding that any educated person could find a better word to use in their vocabulary.

The ongoing controversy stems from a statement Maher made to Republican Senator Ben Sasse on the most recent episode of Real Timewhen the host told Sasse "I gotta get out to Nebraska more." "We'd love to have you work in the fields with us," Sasse responded, to which Maher said "Work in the fields…Senator, I'm a house ni**a."

READ: Bill Maher To Return To HBO Despite N-Word Controversy

Senator Al Franken was supposed to serve as a guest on the forthcoming episode but canceled his appearance because of Maher's remarks, which he called "inappropriate and offensive." However, Ice Cube will be appearing on the forthcoming episode and wants to discuss Maher's use of the n-word, a source close to the rapper and entertainer said. Replacing Franken will be academic and author Michael Eric Dyson.

Bill Maher, who has never had a wife (he's hadmanygirlfriendsinstead), once had a quote attributed to him on his website that said, "I'm the last of my guy friends to have never gotten married, and their wives—they don't want them playing with me. I'm like the escaped slave—I bring news of freedom."

Source: TMZ.com