Trump demanded ABC terminate Jimmy Kimmel for comments about Melania Trump, labeling them shocking.
Donald Trump demanded ABC terminate Jimmy Kimmel for a comment about Melania Trump (Getty Images via AFP)
“Jimmy Kimmel should be immediately fired by Disney and ABC,” the POTUS wrote in post on Truth Social.
“Kimmel, who is in no way funny as attested to by his terrible Television Ratings, made a statement on his Show that is really shocking. He showed a fake video of the First Lady, Melania, and our son, Barron, like they were actually sitting in his studio, listening to him speak, which they weren’t, and never would be,” the Trump remarked.
Also Read: Will ABC fire Jimmy Kimmel? 5 things to know as angry Melania Trump seeks action against the ‘coward’
Here’s what Kimmel said about Melania Trump
Kimmel ridiculed the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in advance during his show on Thursday evening, delivering his own address in which he remarked: “Our first lady, Melania, is here. Look at Melania, so beautiful. Mrs. Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow.”
Melania Trump reacts
Earlier on Monday, Melania Trump harshly condemned the late-night host, labeling him a “coward” who “hides behind ABC because he knows the network will keep running cover to protect him.”
“Kimmel’s hateful and violent rhetoric is intended to divide our country. His monologue about my family isn’t comedy- his words are corrosive and deepens the political sickness within America. People like Kimmel shouldn’t have the opportunity to enter our homes each evening to spread hate. A coward, Kimmel hides behind ABC because he knows the network will keep running cover to protect him. Enough is enough. It is time for ABC to take a stand. How many times will ABC’s leadership enable Kimmel’s atrocious behavior at the expense of our community,” the First Lady wrote.
What’s next for Kimmel
The response signifies a significant change for Melania Trump, who has traditionally avoided interactions with late-night hosts, at least not to the extent of her husband. Her choice to express her views indicates the seriousness with which the incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner is regarded within Trump’s circle.
ABC now finds itself in a well-known situation. The network had previously acted by temporarily suspending Kimmel from broadcasting following backlash related to his remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Ultimately, ABC reaffirmed its support for Kimmel, and the late-night host publicly stated that he maintained a positive relationship with his superiors.
Nevertheless, the First Lady’s participation elevates the stakes for ABC. There remains an opportunity for executives to cancel Monday’s episode and assess whether the situation stabilizes.
Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined The Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at The Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master’s degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women’s Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More
