Jimmy Kimmel returned to ABC earlier this week, a move that quickly drew criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump. Taking to social media, Trump called Kimmel “untalented” and issued a veiled threat to the network, referencing their previous legal dispute.
@hollywoodreporter #jimmykimmel ♬ original sound – The Hollywood Reporter
Trump expressed disbelief that ABC would reinstate Kimmel, whose show he claimed had lost its audience. He accused the host of promoting content favorable to the Democratic Party, warning that this could be considered an “illegal campaign contribution.”
In his post on Truth Social, Trump wrote expressed his annoyance.
Trump added that he might take action against ABC, noting that in a prior case the network paid him $16 million. He concluded by criticizing Kimmel’s ratings and calling him part of a “real team of losers.”
Tensions Between Media and Trump
Kimmel during his first show back, addressed the comments he had made regarding Charlie Kirk assassination earlier this month, while also addressing Trump and freedom of speech.
@cnnJimmy Kimmel returned to his late-night stage and gave an impassioned monologue about standing up against “anti-American” attempts to attack free speech.
The incident underscores the ongoing tension between Trump and mainstream media outlets, particularly ABC, which has faced multiple lawsuits and public rebukes from the president. Kimmel, known for his politically charged comedy, remains a frequent target of Trump’s critiques. Upon his return on Tuesday night, Kimmel speaking on Trump wanting to shut down several late night shows such as his, stated that “He (Trump) might have to release the Epstein files to distract us from this now”.
@donlemon RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES #trump #jimmykimmel ♬ original sound – Don Lemon
