President Donald Trump dismissed comedian Jimmy Kimmel as a “lowlife” during an interview with Greta Van Susteren, stating he had not heard or seen any apology from the entertainer and criticizing Kimmel’s show for being entirely anti-Republican.
Trump also accused ABC of misusing public airwaves by airing Kimmel’s program, warning the network could face “great jeopardy.” The remarks followed backlash over a joke Kimmel made ahead of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, in which he quipped that first lady Melania Trump had the “glow like an expectant widow.”
The dispute intensified after a shooting at the annual dinner — widely reported as targeting Trump — sparked accusations that Kimmel’s comments contributed to a dangerous political climate. Kimmel maintained he did not intend to incite violence and opposes it.
The conflict has since escalated into a regulatory battle, with federal authorities moving to fast-track a review of broadcast licenses held by ABC-owned stations. FCC officials have stated the review relates to broader corporate conduct and compliance concerns, not any single program. However, the timing — following Trump’s public criticism of Kimmel and the network — has raised questions about potential political motivations.
