Jimmy Kimmel Thanks Donald Trump for Critics’ Choice Award Win

Jimmy Kimmel received the award for Best Talk Show at the Critics’ Choice Awards held on January 5, 2026, celebrating his ABC program, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” During his acceptance speech, Kimmel humorously credited U.S. President Donald Trump, stating that his presence in the news cycle contributed significantly to the show’s success.

At the event held at the Barker Hangar, Kimmel addressed the audience with a mix of gratitude and humor. He began by thanking the writers, actors, producers, and union members who supported the show, emphasizing the importance of free speech. “Your actions were important, and we appreciate them,” he said, acknowledging those who stood by the show during challenging times.

The comedian’s remarks came after his show faced a temporary suspension in September due to a controversy surrounding comments he made about Charlie Kirk. Reflecting on the recent turmoil, Kimmel remarked, “It’s been a banner couple of weeks,” highlighting the ups and downs that come with hosting a late-night talk show.

In a playful twist, Kimmel declared, “And most of all, I want to thank our president, Donald Jennifer Trump, without whom, we would be going home empty-handed tonight.” This cheeky reference to Trump drew laughter from the audience, showcasing Kimmel’s ability to blend political commentary with humor. He continued, “So thank you, Mr. President, for all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day,” further underlining the absurdity often found in contemporary politics.

Kimmel’s backstage comments revealed his emotional connection to the show, expressing that the suspension felt like a “near-death experience.” He compared his feelings to those of Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn watching their own funeral, illustrating the weight of the moment for him personally.

The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards celebrated the best in television and film, with Kimmel’s win reaffirming his position in the late-night landscape. The host’s ability to engage with the audience while addressing current events continues to make his show a staple of American late-night television.

As Kimmel prepares to return to the air, his playful jabs at Trump remind viewers of the intertwining nature of politics and entertainment, a hallmark of his show’s appeal.