American politics and entertainment television collided once again as heavyweight Republican figures launched a blistering assault on late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
US Senator Ted Cruz and Donald Trump Jr led the charge against the ABC comedian, criticising his political commentary and resurrecting controversy over past sketches in a feud that has captivated both sides of the Atlantic.
The Cruz Condemnation
Speaking on his podcast 'Verdict', Senator Cruz delivered a particularly harsh assessment of Kimmel's broadcasting style. The Texas Republican didn't hold back, labelling the host's programme as possessing what he called "the most predictable, boring, left-wing, hackneyed, unfunny monologue in the history of television".
Cruz's criticism extended beyond mere political differences, taking aim at the fundamental quality and originality of Kimmel's content in remarks that have set social media ablaze.
Trump Joins the Fray
Adding fuel to the fire, Donald Trump Jr quickly aligned himself with Cruz's position. The former president's son took to his social media platform to amplify the message, sharing Cruz's podcast clip with his substantial following.
In his accompanying commentary, Trump Jr doubled down on the criticism, specifically referencing Kimmel's past comedy segments that have long been contentious among conservative viewers.
A History of Hostilities
This latest exchange merely continues what has become a long-running battle between Kimmel and prominent Republican figures. The late-night host has consistently used his platform to deliver pointed political satire aimed at conservative politicians, particularly those within the Trump orbit.
The feud reached one of its most public moments when former President Donald Trump himself made a surprise appearance on Kimmel's show in 2015, an interview that remains a memorable moment in recent American political media history.
As the war of words continues to escalate, it highlights the increasingly blurred lines between American political discourse and entertainment media, a phenomenon that continues to draw attention from international observers, including those in the UK.
