U.S. First Lady Melania Trump has strongly criticised late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel over comments she described as “hateful and violent rhetoric,” calling on his network, ABC, to take action.
The backlash follows a segment aired on Kimmel’s show in which he reportedly referred to Melania as an “expectant widow,” a remark that has sparked controversy online.
In a statement shared via her official platform, Melania condemned the comedian’s remarks, accusing him of fueling division and spreading harmful narratives.
“Kimmel’s hateful and violent rhetoric is intended to divide our country. His monologue about my family isn’t comedy—his words are corrosive and deepens the political sickness within America,” she said.
She further argued that such content should not be given a platform on national television.
“People like Kimmel shouldn’t have the opportunity to enter our homes each evening to spread hate,” she added.
The former First Lady also took direct aim at the network, alleging that it has continued to shield the host from accountability.
“A coward, Kimmel hides behind ABC because he knows the network will keep running cover to protect him,” she said.
Calling for decisive action, Melania urged the network’s leadership to address the issue.
“Enough is enough. It is time for ABC to take a stand. How many times will ABC’s leadership enable Kimmel’s atrocious behavior at the expense of our community,” she stated.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Jimmy Kimmel nor ABC has issued an official response to the allegations.