Jimmy Kimmel used his Critics Choice Award win to spotlight free speech, industry support, and why Donald Trump keeps his jokes coming.
(PHOTO CREDIT: Disney)
Jimmy Kimmel didn’t just accept an award at the Critics Choice Awards — he made a statement.
On Jan. 4, the longtime late-night host won Best Talk Show and used his moment on stage to thank fellow writers, actors, producers, and union members who supported him during one of the most turbulent moments of his career.
Earlier this year, Jimmy Kimmel Live! was briefly pulled off the air by ABC after complaints from major affiliate station owners Nexstar and Sinclair, following a controversial monologue tied to commentary about Charlie Kirk and an alleged shooter.
Instead of focusing only on the trophy, Kimmel centered his speech on the importance of free expression and collective action in the entertainment industry. He praised those in the room who publicly defended him when his show was suspended, calling their response a reminder that free speech should never be taken lightly in the U.S.
But Kimmel, known for blending humor with sharp commentary, didn’t stop there.
He closed his speech by sarcastically thanking President Donald Trump, joking that without him, the show would have walked away empty-handed. Kimmel referred to Trump as “Donald Jennifer Trump” and credited the president’s daily controversies as endless material for his monologues.
The crowd laughed as Kimmel promised he couldn’t wait to return to the air to talk about what he described as a “banner couple of weeks.”
The moment reflected Kimmel’s larger role in late-night TV — not just as an entertainer, but as a political commentator. His show regularly criticizes Trump, and that criticism has intensified in recent months.
Variety recently reported that Kimmel signed a new deal with Disney, extending Jimmy Kimmel Live! through 2027. The agreement ensures his nightly presence on ABC despite ongoing political tension and public backlash from some corners.
Kimmel has been especially vocal about Trump’s public comments following the murder of filmmaker Rob Reiner. After Trump described Reiner as “deranged” and suggested his death was caused by anger from anti-Trump views, Kimmel condemned the response as lacking compassion and leadership.
In his monologue, Kimmel said the country needed empathy and serious discussions about guns and mental health — qualities he argued were missing from the president’s remarks.
He echoed similar themes during a Christmas Day address on the U.K.’s Channel 4, recalling how widespread support helped bring his show back after it was pulled off the air. Kimmel noted that even people who disliked his show defended his right to speak.
For Kimmel, the Critics Choice win wasn’t just about comedy. It was proof that speaking out — even when risky — still matters.
