April 28, 2026
Critics reject Jimmy Kimmel's defense of his 'expectant widow' joke, key White House figure calls for firing
Jimmy Kimmel insists his controversial joke about Trump and Melania was about age, but critics and the White House say otherwise and demand his firing.
TL;DR
- Jimmy Kimmel defended his controversial "expectant widow" joke about President Trump and first lady Melania Trump, stating it was about his age.
- Critics, including White House director of communications Steven Cheung, rejected Kimmel's explanation and called for his firing from ABC.
- The joke has drawn criticism for its perceived hateful and violent rhetoric, especially in light of an alleged assassination attempt on a Trump administration official.
- Kimmel has a history of controversies, including a previous suspension for remarks about Charlie Kirk.
- Despite the criticism, Kimmel's contract with ABC has been extended until at least May 2027.