George Clooney defends Jimmy Kimmel over Trump joke backlash
The actor pushes back against backlash over a controversial late-night joke
George Clooney has come to the defence of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel following controversy over a joke directed at First Lady Melania Trump that sparked criticism from Donald Trump and his allies.
The backlash stems from a segment aired during a White House Correspondents’ Dinner broadcast, in which Kimmel quipped about Melania Trump, saying, “Our First Lady, Melania, is here… you have a glow like an expectant widow,” a remark that quickly drew attention and condemnation online.
Speaking at the 51st Chaplin Award Gala, Clooney addressed the controversy while also drawing attention to broader concerns about political rhetoric.
He compared criticism of Kimmel’s joke to comments made by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, who had jokingly referenced “some shots fired in the room tonight” ahead of the same event.
“Jimmy’s a comedian,” Clooney said, adding that while jokes are part of public discourse, “the rhetoric is a little dangerous. And we’ve seen it a lot lately.”
Clooney also called for a lowering of political tension, warning that increasingly extreme language in public debate can have real-world consequences.
“When one side is calling anyone they disagree with traitors to the country… I think the rhetoric is a little too heated,” he said.
During his speech, the actor also reflected on his upbringing and his journalist father’s influence, emphasising the importance of a free press and holding those in power accountable.
“You’re supposed to be questioning them,” he said, referencing political figures including Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.
The controversy has also reignited tensions between Clooney and Donald Trump, who has previously criticised both the actor’s political views and his film career.
The White House had earlier dismissed Clooney’s comments on political issues, prompting further public exchanges between the two sides.
Clooney, however, maintained that political disagreement should not derail public discourse, stressing the importance of debate “at the highest levels” rather than personal attacks.