Jimmy Kimmel has delivered a sharp retort to Donald Trump’s recent attack on his ratings, turning the tables on the former president. The late-night host responded after Trump publicly pressured ABC to fire him over a joke about Melania Trump.
Trump's Demand for Dismissal
Donald Trump took to Truth Social to criticise Kimmel, labelling him “unfunny” and his show “one of the lowest-rated,” urging ABC to take action. The attack followed Kimmel’s joke referring to Melania as a “widow,” which sparked backlash from Melania and the National Religious Broadcasters Association.
Kimmel's Comeback
During his show, Kimmel fired back, saying that if low ratings were grounds for dismissal, both he and Trump should be “out of a job.” He referenced Trump’s slipping approval ratings, adding a layer of irony to the exchange. The audience responded with laughter and applause.
Escalating Controversy
The feud intensified after Melania Trump called Kimmel a “coward” on X, accusing him of spreading hate. The National Religious Broadcasters Association filed a complaint with the FCC, which requested ABC renew its broadcast licenses early. Kimmel defended his joke as a light-hearted roast, not incitement to violence.
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between the former president and the comedian, with both camps trading barbs over ratings and rhetoric.
