During a Christmas Day broadcast on the United Kingdom's Channel 4, American late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel offered a critical perspective on U.S. politics under the administration of President Donald Trump. Kimmel's address functioned as an Alternative Christmas Message, positioned as a counterpart to the traditional speech given by King Charles III.
In his monologue, Kimmel conveyed to British viewers his views on the current state of American politics, with a particular focus on what he described as a flourishing of "tyranny." He alluded to his own experiences with the Trump administration, claiming that his late-night show was temporarily taken off the air due to governmental threats against him and the company he works for, ABC, which is owned by Disney. Kimmel framed his show's hiatus and subsequent return as a triumph over the president's efforts to silence him.
The comedian also referenced recent controversial statements made by President Trump, which Democrats and some media outlets interpreted as seditious. The White House clarified that the President was not calling for executions in a literal sense but maintained the strong language used in his comments.
Kimmel touched upon the temporary suspension of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" by ABC in September, following his comments after the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension was lifted after a week, and Kimmel's contract was later extended through 2027, indicating Disney's support despite the political controversy.
He concluded his address by expressing regret to the U.K. audience for America's political turmoil and offered reassurance that not all Americans align with Trump's views. Kimmel emphasized that though the U.S. is experiencing challenges, he believes the nation will recover.
Kimmel's remarks have sparked conversations on social media, with some users highlighting perceived inconsistencies in his statements, specifically regarding his past support for vaccine passports during President Biden's term.
