American talk show host Jimmy Kimmel has delivered a blistering critique of former President Donald Trump on British television, using his platform during Channel 4's Alternative Christmas Message to coin a new moniker for the political figure.
"King Donny the Eighth" and Calls for Executions
In the broadcast on 25 December 2025, the 58-year-old comedian did not mince words, directly addressing the political climate in the United States. Kimmel referred to Trump as "King Donny the Eighth", accusing him of acting like a monarch rather than a president and alleging he was "calling for executions".
He expressed concern over what he described as a rapid erosion of democratic norms, drawing parallels with authoritarian regimes. "Maybe you're thinking: 'Oh a government silencing its critics is something that happens in places like Russia, or North Korea...'," Kimmel said. "Well, that's what we thought and now we've got King Donny the Eighth calling for executions. It happens fast."
A Personal Battle and a "September Miracle"
Kimmel recounted his own clash with the Trump administration, referencing his temporary removal from airwaves earlier in the year. His show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was taken off air by ABC in September 2025 following comments he made concerning the shooting of commentator Charlie Kirk.
He described a public backlash that led to his reinstatement as a "September miracle". "Millions and millions of people stood up and said: 'No, this is not acceptable'," he stated, framing the incident as a victory for free speech. "We won, the President lost and now I'm back on the air every night givin' the most powerful politician on earth a right and richly deserved b******ing."
An Apology to Britain and a Plea for Patience
Striking a conciliatory tone towards the British audience, Kimmel acknowledged that America's internal struggles had international repercussions. "We know this is also affecting you, and I just wanted to say sorry," he admitted, before assuring viewers that "we're not all like him."
He characterised the current period as a "little wobble" for the United States and urged patience, suggesting a resolution might take about three years. Ending on a lighter note, he thanked the UK for Spider-Man and wished viewers a "Merry Christmas, and happy holidays."
The broadcast reinforces Kimmel's long-standing and very public opposition to Trump. The President had previously welcomed Kimmel's September suspension, suggesting some networks should have their broadcast licences revoked, sparking a significant debate about press freedoms in the US.
