Trump rejects Jimmy Kimmel’s apology, labels him a 'lowlife' who 'shouldn’t be on television'

Trump argued ABC is misusing govt airwaves to attack Republicans, warning the network is in 'great jeopardy'
In a Newsmax interview, Donald Trump criticized Kimmel’s comments about the First Lady and questioned ABC's decision to air a host who focuses entirely on 'knocking Republicans and conservatives' (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, Screengrab/
Jimmy Kimme/YouTub
In a Newsmax interview, Donald Trump criticized Kimmel’s comments about the First Lady and questioned ABC's decision to air a host who focuses entirely on 'knocking Republicans and conservatives' (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, Screengrab/ Jimmy Kimme/YouTub


WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Thursday, April 30, flatly rejected Jimmy Kimmel’s apology, calling the comedian a "lowlife" who "shouldn’t be on television" during a Newsmax interview.

These remarks follow backlash over a joke Kimmel made before the White House Correspondents' Dinner, where he quipped that First Lady Melania Trump had "a glow like an expectant widow," a line that drew heavy criticism from Trump’s allies.

Trump rejects apology and labels Kimmel a lowlife

During a telephonic conversation on 'The Record With Greta Van Susteren,' the host asked President Trump specifically about recent attempts at reconciliation, saying, "Jimmy Kimmel has apologised. Is it a good apology? Do you accept the apology?" 

Trump made it clear that he had no interest in the gesture, dismissing the comedian’s character entirely and suggesting that an apology changes nothing. 

"I haven't heard him apologize, but he's a lowlife. Whether he apologized or not, he's a lowlife. He always has been," Trump said.

He continued by questioning Kimmel's professional standing, stating, "He's not a funny guy. He's got no ratings, and I don't understand how he can be on air."



Trump criticizes ABC for one-sided programming

Trump also attacked the network, arguing that ABC is misusing its position to attack only one political side of the country. 

He expressed deep frustration that a major broadcaster uses government resources to host a show he views as entirely anti-Republican. 

"I don't know how a guy can be on television where the network gets free airwaves from the United States government and spend 100% of his time knocking Republicans and conservatives and Trump, 100% of his time," Trump told Van Susteren. 

He argued that the broadcast system is "not supposed to work that way" and specifically pointed to "equal time provisions" and other historical standards as reasons why the current late-night format is unfair.

WASHINGTON, DC - APRIL 30: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during an executive order signing in the Oval Office of the White House on April 30, 2026 in Washington, DC. President Trump signed multiple executive orders including one to expand retirement account access for workers. (Photo by Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
President Donald Trump speaks during an executive order signing in the Oval Office of the White House on April 30, 2026, in Washington, DC (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)

Trump claims ABC is in 'great jeopardy' 

Furthermore, Trump warned that ABC’s continued support of Kimmel’s content could lead to serious repercussions.

He suggested the network is taking a major risk with its current programming, stating, "I think ABC is putting themselves in great jeopardy, actually." 

This warning follows the Federal Communications Commission's decision to speed up a review of ABC’s broadcast licenses.

While officials claim the review is about general corporate rules, the timing has led to a debate over whether the network is being targeted because of Trump’s public complaints.

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