Quick Answer Key
| Clue | Likely Answer | Possible Date(s) | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comedian Bill (Mini Crossword) | BURR | Feb 21, 2024 | Frequently appears in the Mini Crossword |
| Comedian and Political Commentator Bill | MAHER | Mar 14, 2024 | Common in the standard NYT Crossword |
| Bill (without “comedian” or other descriptors) | Varies | Mar 17, 2025 | Could be INVOICE, BEAK, etc. – Definitely not a comic |
Decoding the “Comedian Bill” Clue
The clue “Comedian Bill” in the NYT crossword can be tricky due to its ambiguity. While it often refers to a specific comedian, the word “Bill” alone has multiple meanings. The surrounding words in the clue are crucial for determining the correct answer.
Bill Burr: A Mini Crossword Regular
If the clue is “Comedian Bill” and you’re working on the Mini, the answer is probably Bill Burr. He’s known for his cynical and often controversial stand-up routines and podcast. While pinpointing every appearance is difficult due to limitations in crossword clue archiving, Feb 21, 2024, is listed as a possible appearance. More dates may exist.
Bill Maher: Politics and Puzzles
When the clue includes “political commentator” alongside “Comedian Bill,” it likely suggests Bill Maher, host of Real Time with Bill Maher. He’s known for his political satire and appears in the standard NYT crossword, though less frequently than Bill Burr. Mar 14, 2024, is given as a possible appearance, but other dates likely exist.
When “Bill” Isn’t a Comedian
If the clue simply says “Bill,” it probably doesn’t refer to a comedian. It could be many things, like “invoice,” “beak,” or a person’s name. Always check the surrounding words for context.
Other Comedic Bills
While less common, other comedians named Bill might appear in the NYT crossword. These could include:
- Bill Cosby: (Historically, particularly in older puzzles.)
- Bill Hicks: (Though his appearance is less likely due to his passing.)
- Bill Dana: Another possibility, although less frequent in contemporary puzzles.
- Bill Hader: More often clued through his Saturday Night Live career, rather than stand-up.
A Note on Dates and Data
The dates provided are based on available information, which may be incomplete or from unofficial sources. Verifying every instance against official NYT archives is challenging. There is ongoing research to compile a comprehensive list of appearances for comedians in NYT crosswords, and conclusions about frequency may evolve.
Tips for Solving “Comedian Bill” Clues
- Carefully read the entire clue: Look for keywords that hint at the comedian’s style (e.g., “political,” “cynical”).
- Consider the puzzle’s date: Older puzzles may reference comedians less prominent today.
- Check intersecting clues: Letters from crossing words can help narrow down the possibilities.
Did We Miss Something?
If you have additional information or corrections regarding dates or other “Comedian Bill” clues, please let us know! Community feedback helps maintain accuracy and improve this resource.
