Jimmy Kimmel critiques Trump in pointed late-night monologue
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel used his show to sharply criticize former President Donald Trump over his attacks on the media. The monologue highlighted Trump's recent social media rants labeling journalists as enemies. This exchange underscores ongoing tensions between Trump and entertainment figures.
Jimmy Kimmel, host of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', delivered a monologue on November 15, 2023, directly addressing Donald Trump's escalating criticisms of the press. Kimmel began by referencing Trump's Truth Social post where he called the media 'the true enemy of the people,' a phrase Trump has used repeatedly since his presidency.
'The media isn't the enemy; it's doing its job,' Kimmel stated in the segment, emphasizing the role of journalism in holding power accountable. He drew on historical context, noting Trump's pattern of labeling unfavorable coverage as 'fake news' dating back to his 2016 campaign. Kimmel also mocked Trump's personal attacks on individual journalists and shows, including his own, saying, 'If disagreeing with you makes me the enemy, then guilty as charged.'
The monologue came amid broader dissent in the entertainment industry against Trump's rhetoric. Kimmel referenced similar criticisms from other late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert and Seth Meyers, who have consistently challenged Trump's narratives. This segment aired from the show's studio in Hollywood, California, reaching millions of viewers.
Trump responded indirectly through supporters and allies, but no direct rebuttal to Kimmel was noted in immediate follow-ups. The exchange reflects a larger cultural divide, with media outlets like The Nation reporting on how such public spats fuel debates over press freedom. Kimmel's approach balanced humor with serious commentary, avoiding outright partisanship while underscoring the importance of dissent in democracy.
Background on the feud traces to 2018 when Kimmel first gained attention for critiquing Trump's family separation policies at the border. Since then, Kimmel has occasionally targeted Trump, particularly during election cycles. This latest installment highlights persistent media-Trump friction, with implications for how entertainment influences political discourse.