Baldwin took the opportunity to criticize Hollywood’s anti-Trump sentiments, particularly pointing out Kimmel’s ongoing jabs at the president. He noted that, despite the entertainment industry frequently opposing Republicans, he had never witnessed someone so openly discussing political violence.
“I’ve worked with many big names, Oscar winners and highly paid talents,” Baldwin recalled. “They’d often belittle a politician, saying things like, ‘Someone should get him.’ It made me think, ‘Wow, your words carry weight.’ People listen to you.”
He further questioned if Kimmel’s comments on his late-night show could potentially stir anger towards Trump.
Baldwin contrasted contemporary attitudes with Hollywood’s reaction to the 1981 attempt on President Reagan’s life, referencing old footage of Johnny Carson’s speech at the Academy Awards, which was postponed following the incident.
Baldwin, the second oldest of the Baldwin brothers and a conservative since 2016, mentioned that the current climate in the entertainment industry has altered his perspective on his work.
A joke by Kimmel prompted a call for his removal from office by the president and first lady. Kimmel later explained that it was meant as a “light roast joke” regarding Trump’s age, not an incitement to violence.
Last year, Kimmel faced suspension from Disney, and ABC announced it was indefinitely canceling his show due to controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination that caused a backlash. He returned a few days later, clarifying that he never intended to joke about Kirk’s death.
ABC did not immediately provide a comment on this matter.
