In a night celebrating television excellence, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel used his victory speech to deliver a sharp, sarcastic jab at former US President Donald Trump. Winning the Critics Choice Award for Best Talk Show for 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', the 58-year-old comedian offered a backhanded thank you to his most prolific source of material.
A Sarcastic Salute to the Former President
While accepting the award on stage, Kimmel expressed his gratitude to 'our president, Donald Jennifer Trump'. This invented middle name, replacing Trump's actual given name 'John', was part of a pointed monologue. "Without whom we would be going home empty-handed tonight," Kimmel stated. He further thanked the former president for "all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day," adding that it had been a "banner couple of weeks" for comedy material.
This public mockery is the latest chapter in a long-running feud between the entertainer and the politician. Throughout the past year, the 79-year-old Trump repeatedly attacked Kimmel on his Truth Social platform, dismissing his talent, criticizing his ratings, and labeling him a "bum" who should be removed from television. In turn, Trump remained a staple subject in Kimmel's nightly monologues.
From Verbal Sparring to a Regulatory Threat
The conflict reached a critical point in September when the show faced a serious external threat. Brendan Carr, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairman appointed by Trump, threatened to revoke the broadcasting licence of ABC, the network airing Kimmel's show. This action was prompted by Kimmel's comments regarding the MAGA movement's reaction to the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.
The threat led to the brief suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'. However, the move backfired spectacularly. Upon its return, the show broke viewership records on YouTube and achieved its second-highest television ratings ever. At the time, Kimmel acknowledged the bizarre boost, stating, "We couldn't have done it without you, Mr. President."
A Victory for Industry Solidarity and Free Speech
At the Critics Choice Awards, which marked the first major entertainment industry award show of 2026, Kimmel also took a moment to celebrate the support he received from his peers. According to a report by The Daily Beast, he thanked the writers, actors, producers, and union members who stood by him and his team following the FCC's intervention.
"Many of you were in this room who supported us, who really stepped forward with us, and reminded us that we do not take free speech for granted in this city or in this country," Kimmel said from the stage. "Your actions are important, and we appreciate them." He attended the ceremony with his wife, Molly McNearney.
In a competitive category, 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' triumphed over notable contenders including 'The Daily Show', 'Late Night with Seth Meyers', 'Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen', 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert', and YouTube's 'Hot Ones'. This marked the show's tenth nomination and its second win, having previously won in 2018.
Kimmel's award-night comments follow his recent appearance on British broadcaster Channel 4's annual Alternative Christmas Message. During that segment, he criticized Trump, calling him "the guy who thinks he is our king" and remarking that from "a fascism perspective, this has been a really great year. Tyranny is booming over here."
'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' is set to return on Monday with guest Ben Affleck, undoubtedly with fresh material inspired by the latest political developments.
