Donald Trump once again criticized Jimmy Kimmel for his nightly jokes and for mocking him during the Oscars broadcast earlier this month.
Trump, speaking to Fox News host Howard Kurtz, disparaged Kimmel’s ratings and talent, stating that he felt compelled to respond to Kimmel’s jabs because he considered him a poor host.
Trump initially attacked Kimmel on his Truth Social website during the Oscars, prompting Kimmel to read the message live on air and joke about Trump still watching despite potential legal issues.
In an interview with Kurtz, Trump claimed a victory in getting Kimmel to read his message, criticizing Kimmel’s response as foolish.
Oscars producer Molly McNearney, also Kimmel’s wife, revealed that she had tried to dissuade Kimmel from reading Trump’s message but admitted she was wrong after the joke gained viral attention.
Trump has a history of fixating on his portrayal in late-night television and has publicly targeted hosts like Kimmel, Stephen Colbert, and “Saturday Night Live” for their jokes at his expense.
During his presidency, he sought to retaliate against networks and shows critical of him, even reportedly pressuring Disney, ABC’s parent company, to take action against Kimmel’s show.
