Jimmy Kimmel Discusses Anti-Trump Humor and Democracy at Emmys

During an interview at the Creative Arts Emmy Awards on Sunday, Jimmy Kimmel, the host of ABC’s late-night show, addressed whether his frequent jabs at President Donald Trump could actually be viewed as a form of “defense of democracy.” Kimmel, who picked up an Emmy for his role in “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” was questioned about the many anti-Trump jokes he has made on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

He mentioned, somewhat candidly, that he doesn’t see his humor as a protective measure for the country, although he admitted he enjoys poking fun. “I don’t think I’m really advocating for democracy here,” he stated, “but I do think I’m giving this guy a hard time—he deserves it, and I kind of like doing it,” he told reporters on the red carpet.

Interestingly, Kimmel remarked that suggesting his humor serves as a defense of democracy feels a bit too heavy for him. “Those are serious concepts, and I usually shy away from that,” he added.

Throughout Trump’s presidency, Kimmel has frequently used the President’s actions and policies as material for his show. In fact, he became emotional during his monologue after Trump’s reelection win against Kamala Harris, saying, “Honestly, it was a tough night,” and criticized Trump’s language, claiming it has negative implications for women and immigrants.

When approached about his future in late-night television, Kimmel hesitated, indicating that while he thinks about it often, he’s not quite ready to provide a clear answer. It’s hard to ignore how things have shifted lately—perhaps that’s a common feeling in today’s media landscape.

After CBS announced plans to cancel Stephen Colbert’s “Late Show,” Trump remarked on social media hoping Kimmel’s show would follow suit. In response to the President’s comments, Kimmel couldn’t resist the opportunity for a quip. “Oh, did we hurt your feelings, you delicate little teacup? You want me to be canceled because I joke about you? I thought you were against cancel culture,” he joked in his monologue.

As the conversation unfolds in the late-night arena, Kimmel’s views on Trump continue to provide much food for thought—and laughter, sometimes blurring the lines between comedy and commentary.