Megyn Kelly Takes Aim at Jimmy Kimmel’s Politics Citing Johnny Carson’s Approach
Megyn Kelly Blasts Kimmel’s ‘Obvious’ Anti-Trump Humor, Questions His Relevance
Megyn Kelly took a swipe at late-night host Jimmy Kimmel over his political ideology. Kimmel is known for mocking Donald Trump over his remarks and decisions. Recently, Kelly played a legendary Johnny Carson clip to argue that a comedian should be apolitical.
In a recent appearance on the IMO podcast, co-hosted by Craig Robinson, former First Lady Michelle Obama praised Kimmel for “bravely” taking on Trump. In response to this, the show host stated that it may not be “brave” but a “bold” move, which, for him, seems “obvious and unavoidable.” He also credited his colleagues for talking about it, further admitting, “I think it would be embarrassing if we didn’t talk about this stuff.”
He explained his point, asserting that people should speak out if they’re comfortable, but his role has always been to talk about what’s happening in people’s lives, whether on local radio or national television.
Jimmy Kimmel talks about being political in his show.
While he enjoys humor and making people laugh, he said he takes his work “very seriously” and pushes back against being told what his job should be. He mentioned that discussing politics is a decision made by him and his employer. He also cited comedians like George Carlin and Richard Pryor, noting that mixing comedy with commentary has long been part of the craft.
“It just shows a great deal of ignorance when it comes to comedy, to say, ‘Well, Johnny Carson didn’t do this.’ Like, well, first of all, we’re living in a different time. And secondly, how do you know Johnny Carson wouldn’t do it? I bet Johnny Carson would talk about it. I bet Johnny Carson would be absolutely mortified by what’s going on,’” he added.
Kelly, who played the clip on her show, said that Kimmel was “wrong” in saying so. She proved her point by playing a 1979 clip of Carson explaining why he preferred to stay out of politics. “That’s not what I’m there for. Why do they think that just because you have a Tonight Show, you must deal in serious issues?” he said.
Johnny Carson's old video clip about his political views.
The late comedian mentioned the practice as a “danger”, believing that once someone starts thinking that way, it makes them feel what they say has “great import.” He suggested that the show can instead be used as a forum to “sway people”, while advising that, as an “entertainer”, one should not do it.
As the clip ended, Kelly commented, “Look at that…the difference between humility and hubris.” She remarked that one man is “humble”, “understands his role”, and how “valuable” it is.
Megyn Kelly takes shot at Jimmy Kimmel
Meanwhile, she claimed that Kimmel “needs to feel important” while further accusing him of “smearing” Carson by “suggesting Trump is so uniquely bad even Johnny Carson would break that rule.” In a closing remark, Kelly claimed Kimmel’s show is ‘failing', saying that happens when guests like Adam Schiff are invited instead of Tom Cruise.
According to ABC, the show typically draws between one and two million viewers each night and frequently ranks first among adults aged 18 to 49. Its reach extends further online, where millions watch Kimmel’s monologues on YouTube.