Jimmy Kimmel, Stephen Colbert, and Seth Meyers expressed disappointment in Donald Trump’s election win. The news hit each host and their viewers hard, so they expressed their personal feelings and frustration.
Jimmy Kimmel opened Jimmy Kimmel Live! with his emotional struggle to process Trump’s win. After hours of trying to find something positive to say, he called the night “the worst taco Tuesday of my whole life.” Kimmel cried as he described a “terrible night” for women, children, and hardworking immigrants.
Kimmel joked that viewers may have tuned in to see him cry. “If you’re hate-watching right now, wanting to see me suffer, you’ll be happy to know there was no joy in Mudville last night,” he said with a wry smile.
Late Night host Seth Meyers was more sarcastic. Meyers compared the election to a chaotic holiday surprise, saying, “Either Santa leaves presents under the tree, or he takes a huge dump in your fireplace.” Meyers stated that Trump’s leadership doesn’t reflect his values. He later darkly joked about being trapped in a “time-warp” where Trump dominates American politics.
Stephen Colbert opened The Late Show with a somber monologue, looking straight into the camera and empathizing with his audience. “If you watch this show regularly, I’m guessing you’re not doing great,” he told those who share his disappointment. Colbert, known for his mix of humor and heartfelt moments, reassured viewers that they weren’t alone in their worries and that he too was worried about the future.
Beyond disappointment, Kimmel sent a 19-minute message to Republican viewers, asking them to “send this to a Republican you love.” Though biased, he said he understood Trump supporters’ disagreements and encouraged them to hear his perspective. He joked that he might bring back “beer, trampolines, good times, right?” from The Man Show to connect with viewers who remember his less political comedy.
As late-night hosts process election results, they use their platforms for humor and serious reflection. During a politically charged time, these comedians are touching audiences with emotional monologues, darkly comedic remarks, and calls for understanding.