Comedian and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel secured a significant victory at the 31st Annual Critics Choice Awards, turning his acceptance speech into a pointed political moment. The event, held in Santa Monica, saw Kimmel's show, 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', clinch the award for Best Talk Show for the year 2026.
A Thank You Note to the President
In his memorable acceptance speech on January 5, 2026, Kimmel first acknowledged his crew's hard work. He then shifted focus to an unconventional source of his show's success: former and now-returned US President Donald Trump. With his signature sarcastic tone, Kimmel expressed his gratitude, stating that without Trump, his win might not have happened.
"...I want to thank our president, Donald Jennifer Trump, without whom, we would be going home empty-handed tonight," Kimmel remarked. He concluded his thanks by adding, "So thank you, Mr President, for all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day." The comment drew a mix of laughter and applause from the star-studded audience, highlighting the ongoing cultural and political divide.
Background of Controversy and Comeback
This win marks a notable comeback for the talk show. In September 2025, 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' faced temporary removal from the airwaves. This action was a direct result of Kimmel's controversial monologue concerning the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The incident sparked widespread debate about free speech and comedy's boundaries, putting the show's future in question.
Despite the hiatus and the controversy, the show returned to air. The Critics Choice Award win suggests that the program, and Kimmel's brand of politically charged humour, continues to resonate with both audiences and critics. The award is seen as a vindication of his style, which frequently uses current political figures and events as primary material.
What This Win Signifies
Kimmel's victory and his speech underscore the deep entanglement of entertainment and politics in contemporary American media. His direct address to President Trump reinforces how polarising figures often become central to comedic narrative and late-night television content.
The episode also demonstrates the resilience of satirical news programs in the face of external pressures. By transforming potential setbacks into award-winning material, Kimmel has solidified his position as a leading voice in political comedy. The event confirms that for many late-night hosts, the current political landscape remains an endless source of inspiration, for better or worse.
