In response to Donald Trump’s presidency, Jimmy Kimmel has reportedly acquired Italian citizenship, joining a growing number of celebrities who are making contingency plans after his re-election in 2024. During an appearance on The Sarah Silverman Podcast, Kimmel confirmed the news, which was subsequently verified by Italian news agency Ansa. Kimmel obtained Italian citizenship earlier this year, having proven his ancestral lineage.
Kimmel’s decision follows a wave of celebrities relocating or making plans to leave the US in response to Trump’s re-election. Rosie O’Donnell moved to Ireland in January, while Ellen DeGeneres recently confirmed her decision to relocate to the UK along with her wife, Portia de Rossi. DeGeneres cited the UK’s cleaner environment and treatment of animals as reasons for her move and also expressed concern for the future of LGBTQ+ rights in the US.
Kimmel is among a group of late-night hosts, including John Oliver, Jon Stewart, and Stephen Colbert, who frequently criticize the Trump administration on their shows. In May, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was controversially axed by CBS, following Colbert’s on-air criticism of the network’s decision to settle a $16m lawsuit with Trump. CBS has denied any political motivation behind their decision, but Trump expressed his pleasure at the news.
Trump also suggested that Jimmy Kimmel would be next in line to have his show canceled, stating that Kimmel has even less talent than Colbert. On Silverman’s show, Kimmel addressed this issue and spoke in support of former Trump supporters who have since rounded against his agenda, emphasizing the importance of keeping the door open for those who wish to change their minds and acknowledge their past mistakes.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/aug/13/jimmy-kimmel-italian-citizenship
