US First Lady Melania Trump has slammed late-night host Jimmy Kimmel for comments on his show, accusing him of promoting divisive and harmful rhetoric.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Melania Trump said: “Kimmel’s hateful and violent rhetoric is intended to divide our country. His monologue about my family is not comedy – his words are scathing and deepen the political sickness in America.”
She went on to call for action from the broadcaster, adding: “People like Kimmel should not have the opportunity to enter our homes every night to spread hate.”
He calls ABC to “protect” the host
The first lady also took aim at the network that airs Kimmel’s show, accusing it of shielding him from accountability.
“Kimmel, the coward, hides behind ABC because he knows the network will continue to cover up to protect him,” she said.
“Enough is enough. It’s time for ABC to take a stand. How many times has ABC management allowed Kimmel’s horrible behavior at the expense of our community.”
Kimmel’s controversial monologue
The criticism comes after a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in which Kimmel mocked a high-profile dinner in Washington, DC ahead of the scheduled date.
During his monologue, Kimmel joked about the first lady, saying, “Here’s our first lady Melania. Look at Melania, so beautiful. Mrs. Trump, you’re glowing as a widow-to-be.”
The White House shooting a few days later
Days after the televised remarks, a gunman opened fire at the annual event in Washington, DC. Authorities later arrested the suspect at the scene.
US Attorney General Todd Blanche said investigators believe 31-year-old suspect Cole Tomas Allen was targeting members of President Donald Trump’s administration.
A history of controversy and tension in the air
Kimmel has previously faced backlash for controversial comments. His show was temporarily pulled from air in September last year after remarks about the killing of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk, although the suspension was later lifted.
Despite the controversy, Kimmel and ABC renewed his contract just months after his return, securing Jimmy Kimmel Live! until May 2027.
The ongoing feud with Trump
The latest episode adds to a previous war of words between Kimmel and President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticized the host in public appearances.
In March, Trump called Kimmel a “loser” during an appearance on Fox News.
