Melania Trump has called on ABC to “take a stand” against Jimmy Kimmel, accusing him of using “hateful and violent rhetoric” that aims to divide the nation. This statement came after Kimmel, two days before the White House Correspondents Dinner was disrupted by a shooter, mocked the event on “Jimmy Kimmel Live.” During his parody, he joked that Melania Trump had the look of an “expectant widow,” which sparked significant backlash from Trump supporters following the shooting.
Melania Trump expressed her concerns on X, stating, “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.” She further criticized Kimmel as a coward who hides behind ABC, knowing the network will protect him. She urged ABC to take action, questioning how long the leadership would allow Kimmel’s behavior to continue at the community’s expense.
Variety has contacted representatives for Kimmel and ABC for their comments.
Kimmel, who frequently criticizes Donald Trump on his late-night show, has recently focused more on Melania. The release of the Amazon documentary “Melania” in January intensified his criticism. Kimmel derided the documentary as a “$75 million bribe” from Amazon and later described it as “dreadfully dull,” noting it primarily featured Melania attending fittings, riding in cars, trying on clothes, and interviewing staff.
In a surprise public address at the White House on April 9, Melania Trump distanced herself from Jeffrey Epstein, asserting they were never friends. In response, Kimmel dismissed her statement during a monologue and showed a photo of the Trumps with Epstein.
The 2026 White House Correspondents’ Dinner concluded early when gunshots were heard outside the venue. Donald and Melania Trump, along with other officials, were swiftly evacuated as law enforcement apprehended the shooter on a different floor. In the aftermath, Trump held a press conference, promising to reschedule the event within 30 days.
In September 2025, ABC temporarily removed Kimmel from the air due to remarks he made about Charlie Kirk’s shooting death. Upon his return on September 23, Kimmel emotionally clarified that he never intended to trivialize the young man’s murder.
