Meryl Streep calls Jimmy Kimmel a ‘prince’ and ‘Knight Templar’ carrying banner of press freedom
Meryl Streep sides with Jimmy Kimmel as Donald Trump calls for him to be fired.
— Films Cite (@filmscite) May 1, 2026
“You’re a prince. You are a Knight Templar,” Streep gushed. “You’re carrying the banner of freedom of the press.”
Her movie ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ in theaters now. pic.twitter.com/lFYQerB3s9
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Meryl Streep brought a mix of warmth and pointed commentary during her appearance on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' on Thursday, April 30, while promoting her upcoming film 'The Devil Wears Prada 2'. What began as a light promotional interview gradually shifted into a discussion around media freedom and political pressure.
The Academy Award-winning actor, known for her outspoken views, used the moment to highlight Jimmy Kimmel’s position in today’s media landscape. Streep called him a “prince” and a “Knight Templar,” praising his role in standing firm amid scrutiny and controversy.
Meryl Streep calls Jimmy Kimmel a ‘prince’ and ‘Knight Templar’ carrying banner of press freedom
During the conversation, Meryl Streep told Jimmy Kimmel, You’re a prince. You are a Knight Templar. You’re carrying the banner of freedom of the press.” The remark came after a casual exchange where she asked how he was doing, referencing the ongoing controversy surrounding the late-night host.
Kimmel responded modestly, saying, “I’m just trying to do some jokes.” Streep, however, pushed back on his understatement, adding, “We all depend on you and the world is listening. I’ve just come from around the world.”
The exchange also echoed Streep’s past connection to journalism-themed storytelling, including her portrayal of Washington Post publisher Katherine Graham in 'The Post', which centered on the publication of the Pentagon Papers.
Tension escalates between Jimmy Kimmel and Trump after on-air remarks
Tension between Jimmy Kimmel and Donald Trump escalated following a satirical segment on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' that sparked backlash and renewed criticism from the president. The controversy began after Kimmel hosted a mock White House Correspondents’ style bit on his show.
🇺🇸 Jimmy Kimmel is in the news for all the wrong reasons again...
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) April 26, 2026
He hosted a fake White House Correspondents' Dinner on his show a few days ago, and said:
"Mrs. Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow."
YIKES.pic.twitter.com/L7Y9IXP9ZV
During the segment, he made remarks about Trump and Melania Trump, including a joke describing her as having “a glow like an expectant widow,” which quickly drew attention online.
Following the segment, Trump called for Kimmel to be fired, intensifying the public exchange between the two. Kimmel responded on his show, defending his work and pushing back on the criticism.
On Thursday, April 30, Trump dismissed Kimmel’s apology during a Newsmax interview, calling him a “lowlife” who “shouldn’t be on television,” further escalating the dispute.
