Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is known for his sharp wit and clever humor, and he certainly did not disappoint at this year’s Oscars. As he took the stage to present an award, Kimmel couldn’t resist making a few jabs at the controversial merger between Paramount and Skydance, which resulted in the cancellation of fellow late-night host Stephen Colbert’s show on CBS.
Kimmel began his monologue by teasing the audience about the drama surrounding the Oscar nominations, saying, “I hope you’re all enjoying your last free show before this network is owned by Disney.” He then went on to address the Paramount-Skydance merger, saying, “CBS has a new boss, his name is Viacom.” He continued, “Remember when the CEO of CBS said he would rather shoot himself in the foot than cancel Stephen Colbert’s show? Well, let’s just say he’s got a new orthopedic surgeon.”
Kimmel’s jokes were met with both laughter and applause from the audience, but it was his next bit that really made waves. As he introduced a segment showcasing the most memorable moments from past Oscars, Kimmel couldn’t resist taking a dig at First Lady Melania Trump. “And now, a look back at some of the most unforgettable moments in Oscar history. Or as Melania Trump calls it, ‘a Tuesday night in bed with her husband,'” Kimmel quipped.
The crowd erupted in laughter, and it was clear that Kimmel’s humor was a hit with the audience. But it wasn’t just his jokes about the merger and the Trumps that had people talking. Kimmel also took a moment to address the cancellation of Colbert’s show, which was a hot topic in the entertainment industry. “I do have to say, it’s a shame that CBS canceled Stephen Colbert’s show during the Paramount-Skydance merger,” Kimmel said. “I mean, the guy is just getting started. But I guess that’s show business for you.”
Kimmel’s words were met with a mixture of support and disappointment from the audience. Many fans of Colbert’s show were upset to see it come to an end, but Kimmel’s humor helped to lighten the mood and bring some levity to the situation. And as always, Kimmel’s delivery and timing were spot on, making his commentary both hilarious and thought-provoking.
But it wasn’t just the audience at the Oscars who were buzzing about Kimmel’s monologue. The post-Oscars coverage on various news outlets also highlighted Kimmel’s jokes, with many praising his ability to tackle controversial topics with humor and grace. The popular news site Breitbart even featured an article titled “Jimmy Kimmel Mocks Melania Trump, Bashes CBS for Canceling Stephen Colbert Show,” further solidifying Kimmel’s impact on the night’s events.
In a time when late-night hosts are becoming increasingly political, it’s refreshing to see someone like Kimmel who can walk the line between comedy and commentary without alienating his audience. His jokes about the merger and the Trumps may have ruffled a few feathers, but ultimately, Kimmel’s words brought laughter and entertainment to the Oscars stage.
As the night came to a close, Kimmel’s monologue was just one of the many highlights of the 2026 Oscars. But it was a reminder of the power of humor to address serious issues and bring people together. And with Kimmel at the helm, it’s safe to say that the future of late-night television is in good hands.
