Key Takeaways:
- President Trump demanded ABC remove Jimmy Kimmel’s show in a Truth Social post.
- Jimmy Kimmel responded with sharp jokes about ratings and scandals on his live broadcast.
- The host reminded viewers why his show stays on air despite presidential attacks.
- Trump has previously targeted late-night hosts, including Stephen Colbert.
- This feud highlights tensions between political figures and media freedom.
President Trump posted late on November 20, calling for ABC to drop Jimmy Kimmel’s show.
He wrote that Kimmel has “NO TALENT” and “VERY POOR TELEVISION RATINGS.”
He also complained of biased coverage and urged networks to “Get the bum off the air.”
This attack followed a brief suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live from September 17 to 22.
The feud shows once more how politics now fuels late-night TV drama.
Trump’s Truth Social Post Sparks New Feud
In his Truth Social message, Trump slammed ABC Fake News for keeping Jimmy Kimmel on air.
He accused the network and its syndicates of overlooking low ratings.
Moreover, he repeated his claim of biased coverage against him.
His words set the stage for a sharp response from the late-night host.
Jimmy Kimmel’s Live Response to Trump’s Truth Social Post
On his show’s opening monologue, Jimmy Kimmel addressed the president directly.
He quipped that “the angry orange” posted about the show eleven minutes after airtime.
He thanked Trump for watching on TV instead of YouTube, calling him a valued viewer.
Then he joked about Trump’s current sex scandal, noting its timing amid the social post.
He added a jab about ratings, reminding the audience, “If anyone knows bad ratings, it’s him.”
Inside Kimmel’s Monologue: The Jokes and Jabs
Kimmel mixed humor with pointed criticism throughout his opening remarks.
He referred to Trump’s scandal as “the biggest sex scandal in American history.”
He asked, “What did the president know, and how old were these women?”
Then he circled back to his ratings, suggesting Trump himself should consult his own numbers.
His style remained playful yet direct, blending pop culture with political barbs.
Trump’s History of Attacks on Late-Night Hosts
This is not the first time Trump has targeted late-night TV.
Earlier this year, he also criticized Stephen Colbert’s show.
He used his platform to pressure networks into silencing dissenting voices.
Other hosts like Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers have faced milder jabs.
However, Kimmel saw the harshest criticism, paired with an on-air suspension.
Why This Feud Matters
This clash underscores the growing clash between politics and entertainment.
Late-night hosts shape public opinion through satire and commentary.
When a political leader demands a host be off the air, free speech questions arise.
Moreover, viewers tune in for candid takes on current events.
Networks balance ratings, advertiser interests, and creative freedom under pressure.
What Comes Next for Jimmy Kimmel
ABC has yet to formally respond to Trump’s demand.
Their decision on Jimmy Kimmel Live will shape future host-president dynamics.
If they bow to pressure, it may set a troubling precedent for media.
On the other hand, standing firm could boost the show’s appeal.
Meanwhile, Kimmel will likely stay ready with more jokes in future monologues.
Looking Ahead: The Impact on Late-Night TV
Ads and viewership often rise around high-profile feuds.
A renewed feud with the president could draw new viewers to Kimmel.
Industry insiders will watch how ABC handles corporate and political pressure.
At the same time, networks must consider brand safety and advertiser comfort.
Ultimately, late-night TV thrives on lively debate and fearless humor.
Final Thoughts
The back-and-forth between Jimmy Kimmel and President Trump shines a light on modern media battles.
Kimmel used humor to defend his show and mock the president’s own controversies.
Trump’s direct demand to remove a host raises alarms about free expression.
For now, viewers will tune in to see who lands the next punchline.
FAQs
What exactly did President Trump say about Jimmy Kimmel?
He posted on Truth Social accusing Jimmy Kimmel of having no talent, poor ratings, and biased coverage. He demanded networks remove the show from air.
How did Jimmy Kimmel respond to the president’s demand?
He addressed the post during his opening monologue, joking about Trump’s scandal, ratings, and the late-night viewership.
Has President Trump targeted other late-night hosts before?
Yes. He has previously criticized Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and Seth Meyers, though none faced suspension like Kimmel’s show.
What might happen next for Jimmy Kimmel Live?
ABC may choose to stand by the host or yield to pressure. Either outcome could influence network decisions on political satire in late-night TV.
