Internet rejects Pat McAfee's apology to Jimmy Kimmel over Aaron Rodgers' Jeffrey Epstein claim

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: The online community has declined to accept Pat McAfee's apology to Jimmy Kimmel for their ESPN show's involvement in exacerbating the feud between Kimmel and Aaron Rodgers.

This fallout arose from Rodgers' insinuation during McAfee's show about Kimmel's potential connection to Jeffrey Epstein, prompting Kimmel to consider legal action.

According to etonline.com, McAfee began his Wednesday show, attributing the controversy to their program's spontaneous nature and lack of planning, exacerbated by sleep deprivation from covering the Rose Bowl.

He mentioned the segment possibly crossing boundaries, acknowledging the unintended shift from banter to a serious allegation, leading to an overnight controversy.

McAfee reflects on unintended Fallout and hopes for resolution

 "There could be some things that were certainly, probably -- I mean, we're gonna have to hear from Aaron on that -- meant to be a s**t talk joke that can then become something that is obviously a very serious allegation, that then leads to a massive overnight story, one in which I put the baby down to sleep -- I haven't seen her in a while -- then I pick up my phone and oh boy," McAfee said. 

"But I can see exactly why Jimmy Kimmel felt the way he felt, especially with his position. But I think Aaron's just trying to talk s**t. Now, did it go too far? Jimmy Kimmel certainly said that was the case ... but that is Aaron and Jimmy, they've been, I don't know, you know? So, we obviously don't like the fact that we're associated with anything negative ever. We'd like our show to be an uplifting one, a happy one, a fun one, but it's because we talk s**t and try to make light of everything." 

He continued, "Some things, obviously, people get very pissed off about, especially when they're that serious allegations. So, we apologize for being a part of it. I can't wait to hear what Aaron has to say about it. Hopefully those two will just be able to settle this, you know, not court-wise, but be able to chit chat and move along."

Rodgers sparks controversy with Jeffrey Epstein insinuation aimed at kimmel

During the show on Tuesday, the quarterback from the New York Jets, a frequent guest, strongly implied that Jimmy Kimmel might have been one of those who traveled with the disgraced billionaire and convicted child abuser.

With the imminent release of previously sealed court documents, a large number of names tied to Epstein, including some prominent public figures, are expected to be disclosed.

"There's a lot of people, including Jimmy Kimmel [that] are really hoping that doesn't come out," stated Rodgers during the Tuesday broadcast. "I'll tell you what, if that list comes out, I definitely will be popping some sort of bottle."

The feud between Kimmel and Rodgers began in November 2021, stemming from the comedian dubbing Rodgers a "Karen" due to the quarterback's position on COVID-19 vaccines. Their ongoing exchange intensified on Tuesday after Rodgers' insinuation about Epstein, leading Kimmel to respond on social media.

"Dear A**hole: for the record, I’ve not met, flown with, visited, or had any contact whatsoever with Epstein, nor will you find my name on any 'list' other than the clearly-phony nonsense that soft-brained wackos like yourself can’t seem to distinguish from reality," Kimmel tweeted.

He further added, "Your reckless words put my family in danger. Keep it up and we will debate the facts further in court. @AaronRodgers12."

Social media speculation and reactions pour in

In the aftermath of the unfolding controversy involving Pat McAfee, Jimmy Kimmel, and Aaron Rodgers, social media platforms have become a hotbed of speculation and diverse reactions.

One commented, "Hmmmmm ABC and ESPN same company...@PatMcAfeeShow @jimmykimmel walking it back after you got caught...."

Another replied, "When does Aaron Rodgers apologized? I was only joking doesn't count!."

One replied, "So why was he enjoying it so much when Mrs. Rodgers was saying it?."

One commented, "Pat McAfee clearly has a sensible lawyer."