In a bizarre twist on Christmas Day 2025, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel appeared on Britain’s Channel 4 to deliver the network’s “Alternative Christmas Message,” a satirical counterpart to the King’s annual address. Seated with tea and biscuits, Kimmel launched into a tirade against President Trump, declaring, “From a fascism perspective, this has been a really great year. Tyranny is booming over here.” He warned UK viewers about the alleged erosion of democracy in America, referencing his own brief suspension from ABC earlier in the year and portraying the U.S. as sliding into authoritarianism under Trump’s second term.

Kimmel’s appearance has sparked outrage among many Americans who view him as a partisan mouthpiece, amplifying anti-Trump narratives on foreign soil while enjoying full free speech protections at home. Critics point out the irony: after being reinstated to his show following public backlash over free speech concerns, Kimmel uses an international platform to label America fascist—yet faces no repercussions, highlighting the robust freedoms he claims are under threat. His self-deprecating closer, admitting “We are not bright. We’re Americans,” only underscored the disconnect, as he asked for patience from the world while predicting Americans might “come through” eventually.

While some fringe voices fantasize about extreme measures like arrests or Gitmo for Kimmel’s outspoken criticism, the reality is that his broadcast exemplifies the very free expression he dramatizes as endangered. Channel 4’s choice to feature him reflects ongoing transatlantic cultural divides, but it also reminds us that robust debate—including harsh satire—is alive and well in America, far from the tyranny Kimmel hyperbolically describes. In the end, his message may have entertained Brits but largely reinforced polarized views back home.