On August 11, 2025, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel hinted at the possibility of leaving the United States due to his distress over Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 election. This was mentioned during an appearance on Sarah Silverman’s podcast, as reported by Variety.
Kimmel, who has obtained Italian citizenship, remarked, “What’s going on is as bad as you thought it was going to be. It’s so much worse; it’s unbelievable.” His comments reflect a growing sentiment among other Hollywood stars who are considering moving abroad in protest of Trump’s presidency.
Kimmel’s comments came in response to Trump’s statements targeting late-night hosts, where he said, “Fallon has no talent. Kimmel has no talent. They’re next. They’re going,” according to The Hollywood Reporter. Other celebrities, such as Ellen DeGeneres and Rosie O’Donnell, have already relocated. DeGeneres, currently in the UK, mentioned, “We woke up to texts with crying emojis… We’re staying here,” during an event in Cheltenham. O’Donnell, who is in Ireland, told The Irish Times, “I’ve never regretted moving here with my special-needs child.”
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The departure of celebrities is a reflection of widespread dissatisfaction with Trump’s policies and rhetoric, which are often perceived as hostile toward liberal-leaning individuals. Kimmel’s possible move, supported by his Italian citizenship, is in line with other stars seeking refuge in countries like the UK and Ireland. This trend signals a growing cultural and political divide. Reactions on social media show polarised opinions, with some fans backing the celebrities’ decisions while others criticise them as performative.
Kimmel’s possible decision to leave could spark discussions about the influence of politics in entertainment, which may change the landscape of late-night television. As celebrities move to different platforms, their audiences and engagement levels may also shift. This trend highlights the growing tensions between celebrity culture and the Trump administration, ultimately shaping public discourse.
