Famous host Jimmy Kimmel dismissed criticism after the White House and Donald Trump urged ABC to fire him for jokingly calling Melania Trump a "widow-to-be" just days before a shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner. Kimmel responded that it was "just a joke about age," and suggested the First Lady discuss violence issues with her husband.
Jimmy Kimmel, host of a popular talk show, defended himself after heavy criticism for mocking Melania Trump as a "widow-to-be," comments that became controversial following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner.
The incident began on the night of 23 Apr 2024 GMT+7 during an episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! Kimmel referred to the First Lady, saying, "Mr. Trump, you look radiant, like someone about to become a widower," joking about the age gap between President Trump, nearly 80 years old, and his younger wife.
However, just three days later, a tense situation unfolded when 31-year-old Cole Thomas Allen opened fire at a security checkpoint during the White House Correspondents' Association dinner in Washington, D.C., attended by Trump and Melania. Although unharmed, the incident caused Kimmel's joke to be seen as promoting violence.
Melania Trump posted on X condemning Kimmel, saying, "People like Kimmel should never be allowed into our homes every night to spread hatred," and questioned ABC and Disney executives on how long they would tolerate such bad behavior.
Meanwhile, President Trump stated via Truth Social that Kimmel's words were "incitement to violence" and demanded Kimmel be immediately fired.
In his latest show opening, Kimmel rebutted all accusations, saying the joke was merely a jab at Trump's age. "It was not a call for assassination, and they know that. I have campaigned against gun violence for many years."
Kimmel also delivered a sharp message to Melania: "I agree we should reject hateful and violent rhetoric, and I think the best place to start is for you to discuss this with your husband."
This is not Kimmel's first political storm. In September last year, he was suspended for a week after comments about the death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk sparked outrage among Trump supporters.
Currently, the shooter faces charges of attempted assassination of the president and illegal firearm possession. Meanwhile, Kimmel's future with ABC remains under close watch as the network considers its response to this significant political pressure.
. BBC