Bill Maher backed his choice to have the performer Louis CK at the Mark Twain Prize event.
He said CK must not face a forever exile for prior issues.
Maher pointed to other examples of names who warrant a fresh look.
At a gathering with Donald Trump, Maher called Trump an unknown quantity.
He also praised Trump's focus on future plans.
The Maher's remarks push forward current conversations about comebacks in show business.