US comedian Jimmy Kimmel to deliver an alternative Christmas message to UK audiences this holiday season. The Christmas special will be broadcast on Channel 4 at 5:45 PM on Christmas Day. It follows closely on the heels of his hiatus from his now-former late-night show. Kimmel wants to inspire listeners to raise hell after their free speech is attacked. This call to action is a response to our current political climate here in the United States.
Kimmel, well-known as the host of his late-night television show, faced significant pressure from Donald Trump’s administration earlier this year. In September, his show was cancelled indefinitely. This came after his accusation that Trump’s political movement had taken advantage of the killing of Charlie Kirk. America is increasingly aflame with tensions over free speech and political expression. Kimmel will make the case for federal leadership on these issues in his March 12 message.
In his Christmas broadcast, Kimmel plans to draw parallels between the first year of Trump’s expected second administration and the rise of fascism. As a symbol of press freedoms, he reminds us that when threatened, they can be snuffed out quickly if we do not raise our voices in protest.
“From a fascism perspective, this has been a really great year.” – Jimmy Kimmel
In his State of the Union address, Kimmel will take stock of America’s political landscape. He’ll remind us of the incredible solidarity and courage that comes from fighting it. He thanked his viewers for standing by him at a time when his show was in a precarious position.
“On behalf of all of us at the show, I just want to say that we appreciate your support, your enthusiasm, and not just for watching. This year, you literally pulled us out of a hole and we cannot thank you enough.” – Jimmy Kimmel
Kimmel has a specific desire to reach ordinary viewers beyond the US. He hopes to bring them back to the real world and let them know that most Americans are scared about the direction of their country. He stated,
“It’s important that we as Americans let our friends in other countries … know that a lot of us are not OK with what is happening.” – Jimmy Kimmel
In response to the announcement, a Channel 4 spokesperson said that Kimmel was especially well-suited to tackle these issues.
“Donald Trump’s return to the White House and wide-ranging impact on the world has been the story of 2025, and it would be hard to think of a better person to address it than Jimmy Kimmel, who has found himself on the frontline of America’s battle over free speech.” – Channel 4 spokesperson
As we move into the chaotic holiday season this year, Kimmel’s counter-messaging rises to its full strength. It prompts viewers to consider the importance of free expression and the obligation to push back against repressive political currents.