On December 25, 2023, American late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel delivered a pointed critique of former President Donald Trump during an “alternative Christmas message” broadcast on the UK’s Channel 4. Kimmel’s remarks came as part of a tradition where the public broadcaster features a high-profile figure to offer a contrasting viewpoint to the monarch’s annual address.
Channel 4 described Kimmel as being “on the front line of America’s battle over free speech,” underscoring the contentious nature of his comments. Previous speakers in this series have included controversial figures such as former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and whistleblower Edward Snowden.
Critique of American Politics
Kimmel opened his address with a humorous acknowledgment of his unfamiliarity with the tradition, saying, “I know little of the tradition, but I can tell you that from a fascism perspective, this has been a really great year. Tyranny is booming over here.” His comments reflect a broader concern regarding political developments in the United States.
He specifically targeted Trump, stating that the former president wished to “shut me up because I don’t adore him in the way he likes to be adored.” Kimmel’s remarks highlighted the tension between entertainment and politics, especially following a brief suspension of his show by ABC in September after comments he made regarding a shooting incident involving conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Grateful for the support he received during that period, Kimmel declared, “We won, the president lost, and now I’m back on the air every night.” He referred to Trump as “King Donny the Eighth” and criticized his administration for “figuratively and literally tearing down the structures of our democracy.”
Kimmel lamented the current state of American democracy, stating, “From the free press to science, to medicine, to judicial independence, to the actual White House itself, we are a right mess.” He expressed a desire for the UK audience to understand that not all Americans share Trump’s views, urging, “Don’t give up on us.”
A Message of Hope
In a moment of reassurance, Kimmel suggested that the United States is “going through a bit of a wobble,” but expressed optimism for the future, saying that Americans would “come around in time.” He humorously requested that Britain “give us about three years,” alluding to the upcoming 2028 presidential election.
His address aired shortly after King Charles’ annual Christmas message, which emphasized themes of “compassion and reconciliation” amidst societal division. The King celebrated Britain’s “great diversity” and expressed appreciation for his encounters with individuals of various faiths, contrasting sharply with the Trump administration’s recent assertions regarding immigration and societal cohesion.
Kimmel’s alternative Christmas message resonates with many who share his concerns about the current political climate in the United States and reflects an ongoing dialogue about leadership, governance, and the state of democracy.
This article originally appeared in The New York Times.
