Washington: First Lady Melania Trump has urged US network ABC to address comments made by talk show host Jimmy Kimmel during a sketch on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' that aired prior to the White House Correspondents' Dinner. The sketch, which included jokes about Melania and President Donald Trump, has drawn criticism for its tone and content.
According to Ghana News Agency, the controversy arose after a gunman attempted to storm the White House Correspondents' Dinner on Saturday night. Days before, Kimmel's sketch made light of the event, jokingly referring to the possibility of a medical emergency involving the President and making remarks about Melania's appearance. The sketch included comments such as, "Our first lady, Melania, is here. So beautiful. Mrs Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow."
In response, Melania Trump took to social media platform X on Monday, condemning Kimmel's words as divisive and corrosive. She described the talk show host as a "coward" and called for ABC to take a stand against what she perceives as harmful rhetoric. Melania stated that Kimmel's monologue was not comedy but rather an attack that deepens political divides in America. She urged ABC to reconsider its support of Kimmel, questioning how many times the network would allow such behavior.
The controversy follows a previous incident in September when Kimmel was suspended indefinitely after making comments on his show about the murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension led to public criticism and debates over free speech, resulting in Kimmel's reinstatement after five days.
ABC and Jimmy Kimmel have been contacted for comment regarding the current situation.