Story perspectives

Jimmy Kimmel's Oscars Jabs at Trump Spark Applause

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

At the 98th Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, Jimmy Kimmel targeted U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
While presenting the Best Documentary Feature and Short Film awards, he contrasted filmmakers' courage with Melania Trump, saying, "There are also documentaries where you walk around the White House trying on shoes."
The remarks drew applause and highlighted Hollywood's tension with Trump-era politics.

History

Historical Context

The 2016 U.S. Presidential Election, held on November 8, saw Donald Trump defeat Hillary Clinton, receiving 304 electoral votes despite losing the popular vote by over 2.8 million. This election marked a significant political upset, as Trump flipped key Rust Belt states like Michigan and Pennsylvania, which had previously supported Barack Obama, highlighting a deepening national divide and the influence of populist sentiments in American politics.

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Story summary

At the 98th Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, Jimmy Kimmel targeted U.S. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump.
While presenting the Best Documentary Feature and Short Film awards, he contrasted filmmakers' courage with Melania Trump, saying, "There are also documentaries where you walk around the White House trying on shoes."
The remarks drew applause and highlighted Hollywood's tension with Trump-era politics.

1 / 2