Bill Maher, a well-known talk show host and outspoken comedian, has said he won’t be going back on tour for stand-up comedy because of rising political polarization and worries about his own safety. Maher said in recent podcast interviews, including one with fellow comedian Jerry Seinfeld, that he made the decision because he was afraid that performing live could make him a target for violence from both sides of the political spectrum. He said, “I could get shot by the left or the right.”

Maher’s next HBO special is likely to be the last stand-up show of his 40-year career, which he called “like cutting off a limb.” Fans shouldn’t expect any more stand-up shows or tours from him, even though he will keep hosting “Real Time with Bill Maher.” Maher said that the long trips and hard work of performing have led to his decision. He said, “I’m tired of getting up on Saturday morning and going to a place after working so hard on Real Time all week.”

Maher is no longer doing stand-up, but he is still working on his HBO show and is thinking about doing new live podcast events as the next step in his career. The end of an era for the comedy veteran, who has shaped political satire over the years with his sharp wit and unapologetic humor, is his departure from the stand-up circuit.