Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel launched a no-holds-barred assault on a trio of fallen television stars during his opening monologue, leaving no scandal unturned in a segment that has since gone viral.
The comedian took particular aim at former Today show anchor Matt Lauer, who was fired from NBC in 2017 following numerous allegations of sexual misconduct. Kimmel mockingly referenced Lauer's recent attempt to rebrand himself as a 'rancher' in New Zealand, quipping that the disgraced presenter was now 'herding cattle instead of chasing women around the office'.
The 'Morally Bankrupt' News Icon
Kimmel's wrath then turned to Charlie Rose, the once-revered journalist whose career imploded after multiple women accused him of predatory behaviour. The host labelled Rose 'morally bankrupt' and savaged the former CBS anchor for his perceived hypocrisy and grotesque abuse of power.
Perhaps the most surprising target was Megyn Kelly, the former Fox News and NBC host. Kimmel played a damning clip from her past, showcasing her controversial commentary. He didn't just critique her professional missteps but framed her as a symbol of a toxic media culture that enabled such figures to thrive.
A Warning From The Past
In a clever piece of comedic framing, Kimmel resurrected a 2010 clip featuring Jay Leno. The former Tonight Show host was seen offering a prophetic warning to his then-rival, David Letterman, who was himself embroiled in a scandal. Leno's advice to 'be careful' served as a stark reminder that the patterns of abuse and cover-up have been an open secret in the industry for years.
Kimmel's monologue transcended simple comedy. It functioned as a searing indictment of the entire television ecosystem that protected powerful men at the expense of their victims. His routine powerfully underscored the stark contrast between the polished, respectable personas these figures presented on screen and the deeply troubling behaviour they allegedly engaged in behind the scenes.
The segment has been widely praised for using humour as a weapon to hold powerful figures accountable, demonstrating that even years later, the consequences for such actions remain a potent topic for public discourse.
