In a provocative alternative to the traditional royal Christmas address, American television host Jimmy Kimmel utilized Britain’s Channel 4 platform to issue a stark warning about the erosion of democratic institutions in the United States under President Donald Trump’s administration.
The 55-year-old comedian, whose ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ show faced temporary suspension by ABC in September, drew parallels between current political developments and historical fascism during his broadcast on Christmas Day. ‘From a fascism perspective, this has been a really great year,’ Kimmel remarked with characteristic irony. ‘Tyranny is booming over here.’
Channel 4’s Alternative Christmas Message, established in 1993 as a counterpoint to the monarch’s annual speech, has historically featured unconventional voices including whistleblower Edward Snowden and former Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. This year’s edition continued that tradition of thought-provoking commentary on contemporary issues.
Kimmel referenced his recent confrontation with the Trump administration, noting that his September suspension—celebrated by the president as ‘great news for America’—prompted an extraordinary defense of free speech from across the political spectrum. ‘A Christmas miracle happened in September when millions of people, some who hated my show, spoke up for free speech,’ he told British viewers.
The comedian expressed particular concern about the systematic dismantling of democratic foundations, citing attacks on ‘the free press, science, medicine, judicial independence, and the actual White House itself.’ He acknowledged America’s current political turmoil as a ‘right mess’ that affects international allies, offering an apology to British viewers while urging continued transatlantic solidarity.
Despite historical differences dating to the American Revolution, Kimmel emphasized the enduring special relationship between the nations and pleaded with the UK not to abandon the US during its political ‘wobble.’