Late-night figures Seth Meyers and John Oliver shared their thoughts on Jimmy Kimmel’s role in absorbing criticism from former President Donald Trump. During a Thursday segment on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, Oliver and Meyers expressed their view that Kimmel serves as a “bulletproof vest” against Trump’s disapproval.
Oliver noted that Kimmel frequently comes up in audience interactions during stand-up shows he does with Meyers. The typical query concerns their feelings towards being disliked by Trump, to which Oliver replies that with Kimmel still broadcasting, they are unaffected. Meyers acknowledged Kimmel’s unique ability to attract Trump’s criticism.
“You draw all the ire,” Meyers commented.
Oliver offered unwavering support for Kimmel, equating it to relying on protective wear. The hosts speculated on why Kimmel receives the most attention from Trump, with Meyers suggesting Trump might paradoxically want to socialize with Kimmel.
Meyers humorously imitated Trump by suggesting he might be intrigued by Kimmel’s network of friends, including famous personalities like Larry David and Conan O’Brien.
Kimmel remarked on Trump’s apparent lack of concern towards another late-night host, Jon Stewart, while sometimes targeting Meyers. He theorized Trump primarily tunes into major networks. This would exclude HBO, where Oliver’s show airs.
“He definitely doesn’t have Comedy Central. He has no idea, like most people, no idea where to find that,” Kimmel stated.
Kimmel posited that Meyers’ show airs too late to catch Trump’s attention, given his daily routine of late-night tweeting activities. Meyers found Trump’s real-time reactions to his show valuable.
In response to inquiries, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle attacked the late-night hosts for their comments. He questioned Meyers’ talent and criticized all three presenters, emphasizing Kimmel’s low-rated program.
The White House previously criticized Kimmel’s rating issues and claimed his audience dwindled due to purportedly dishonest broadcasts.
Hanna Panreck, serving as an associate editor, contributed to this article for Fox News.