Jimmy Kimmel thanks Donald Trump for ‘ridiculous things you do’ in Critics Choice acceptance speech
Late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel stunned the audience Sunday night when he unexpectedly thanked President Donald Trump while accepting the award for Best Talk Show at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards.
As Kimmel stepped onstage to accept the honor, he immediately set a playful but pointed tone. Before beginning his remarks, the comedian pulled out an absurdly long piece of paper, drawing laughter from the crowd.
“I really didn’t expect this,” Kimmel began. He then shifted to a more serious note, acknowledging the people who stood by him during a turbulent period for his show.
“Thanks to all the writers and actors and producers and union members, many of you who are in this room, who supported us, who really stepped forward us and reminded us that we do not take free speech for granted in this city or in this country,” he said, referencing a tense moment when Jimmy Kimmel Live! was suspended for six days.
“Your actions were important, and we appreciate them,” he added.
The speech took an unexpected turn when Kimmel pivoted to the president, whom he has frequently criticized on air over the years. Pausing for effect, Kimmel delivered the line that quickly became the most talked-about moment of the night.
“And most of all, I want to thank our president, Donald Jennifer Trump, without whom, we would be going home empty-handed tonight,” he said, prompting a mix of laughter and surprise from the audience.
Kimmel continued, leaning into his trademark sarcasm.
“So thank you, Mr. President, for all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day,” he added. “It’s been a banner couple of weeks, and we can’t wait to get back on the air tomorrow night to talk about them.”
While Kimmel did not elaborate further, the remarks were widely interpreted as both a jab and a nod to the political climate that often fuels his monologues and comedic commentary.
The reference to free speech and recent challenges dates back to September 2025, when Jimmy Kimmel Live! was temporarily taken off the air following controversial remarks Kimmel made in connection to the death of Charlie Kirk. The suspension sparked debate within the entertainment industry and among viewers about boundaries, satire, and the role of political comedy.
Sunday night’s acceptance speech appeared to blend gratitude, satire, and defiance, hallmarks of Kimmel’s long-running approach to late-night television. By thanking Trump, even sarcastically, Kimmel underscored how political figures he often criticizes continue to shape the material that keeps his show in the cultural conversation.
As the ceremony moved on, Kimmel’s remarks quickly spread across social media, with reactions ranging from praise for his bold humor to renewed debate over the intersection of politics and entertainment. One thing was clear: even during an awards show celebration, Kimmel managed to turn the spotlight back onto the political drama that defines much of his work.
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