Jimmy Kimmel, the long-time host of ABC's late-night programme Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has always been outspoken about his political views. Known for his witty monologues and sharp humour, Kimmel hasn’t shied away from criticising former US President Donald Trump.
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Their ongoing feud has played out publicly for years, both on air and online. Now, the comedian has made headlines not just for his jabs at Trump, but for a significant personal decision: obtaining Italian citizenship. Here’s a closer look at what prompted this move and the rocky history between Kimmel and Trump.
Kimmel becomes an Italian citizen: What we know
Kimmel revealed that he had obtained Italian citizenship during a recent episode of The Sarah Silverman Podcast. He shared:
I did get Italian citizenship
The news was further verified by Italian news agency Ansa, which confirmed that Kimmel secured his new status earlier this year by proving his ancestral lineage, which he traced back to Italian forebears through official documentation submitted to Italian authorities.
His decision comes at a time when several high-profile American celebrities, such as Ellen DeGeneres and Rosie O'Donnell, have reportedly explored similar options in light of increasing political tension in the United States. Kimmel hinted at this trend, saying:
What’s going on is…as bad as you thought it was gonna be, it’s so much worse. It’s just unbelievable.
The move follows Trump’s recent criticism of media figures he considers politically opposed to him. As reported by Euro News, Trump made comments implying that Kimmel’s show could follow The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in being cancelled.
The Kimmel-Trump feud explained
The tension between Jimmy Kimmel and Donald Trump is far from new. Kimmel has consistently mocked the former president during his nightly monologues.
The feud reached new heights during the 2024 Oscars when Kimmel read out Trump’s social media critique live on stage. Trump had posted on Truth Social:
Kimmel is a bad host.
Kimmel responded with his signature humour:
Well, thank you President Trump. Thank you for watching, I’m surprised you’re still up – isn't it past your jail time?
Kimmel hasn’t held back with nicknames either, calling Trump 'Commander-In-Thief', 'His MAGA-Sty', 'Jabba The Pizza Hut', and 'The Shart of the Deal.'
Trump, on the other hand, has also taken aim at Kimmel following the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. At a press conference, he said:
(Jimmy) Fallon has no talent. Kimmel has no talent. They’re next.
He added on Truth Social:
Next up will be an even less talented Jimmy Kimmel, and then, a weak, and very insecure, Jimmy Fallon.
Kimmel retaliated once again with an Instagram post alluding to Trump’s association with Jeffrey Epstein:
I’m hearing you’re next. Or maybe it’s just another wonderful secret.
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Sources used:
Euro News: Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel confirms Italian citizenship as Trump targets celebrity opponents
