In recent months, late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Bill Maher have made remarks about Melania Trump that have drawn sharp reactions from President Donald Trump and his supporters.
During the 140th annual White House Easter Egg Roll, Melania Trump read a children's book to attendees. Kimmel mocked her accent during this appearance, leading to criticism from various quarters. For instance, Fox News host Sean Hannity condemned Kimmel's actions, labeling them as "vicious, vile attacks." Hannity also criticized Kimmel's past antics, referring to them as "sick, twisted, creepy, perverted."
In response to the backlash, Kimmel apologized, stating that he did not wish to contribute to the prevailing "vitriol." He acknowledged that Melania Trump had enough to contend with and should not be used as a prop to boost television ratings.
Separately, Bill Maher has expressed his reluctance to continue his HBO show, "Real Time with Bill Maher," following Trump's election victory. Maher cited exhaustion from covering Trump's policies and controversies, referring to him as a "Mafia boss" and "con man." Despite this, Maher has pledged to approach the new administration with an open mind, willing to assess the changes they might bring.