Comedian Jimmy Kimmel has confirmed that he has obtained Italian citizenship, a move he hinted may be linked to his dissatisfaction with the current political climate in the United States. Kimmel shared this news during an appearance on the podcast hosted by fellow comedian Sarah Silverman. The discussion revolved around the challenges faced during President Donald Trump’s second term in office.
Kimmel stated, "I do have… I did get Italian citizenship," indicating that he is contemplating a permanent move to Europe. Silverman noted that many of Trump’s critics have left the country, a sentiment Kimmel echoed. He remarked, "What’s going on is… as bad as you thought it was gonna be, it’s so much worse. It’s just unbelievable. I feel like it’s probably even worse than [Trump] would like it to be."
The late-night host has been a vocal critic of Trump and has actively campaigned for Democratic candidates in the upcoming 2024 election. He first announced his Italian citizenship at an event celebrating the 79th Italian Republic Day in June, where he credited his grandmother, Edith, for his new status. "I have just obtained citizenship, thanks to my beloved grandmother Edith, whose family came from Candida, in the province of Avellino," Kimmel told attendees.
Kimmel's comments come in the wake of other celebrities, including Rosie O'Donnell and Ellen DeGeneres, who have also announced their relocations outside the U.S. following the 2024 election. Recently, Trump warned that Kimmel could be the next late-night host to face cancellation, following the announcement that Stephen Colbert's show would end in May 2026.
In his podcast appearance, Kimmel also addressed the shifting political views of some former Trump supporters. He expressed understanding for those who have changed their stance, saying, "I think the door needs to stay open. If you want to change your mind, that’s so hard to do. If you want to admit you were wrong, that’s so hard and so rare to do. You are welcome."
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Kimmel's remarks reflect a growing sentiment among some entertainers regarding the current administration and its impact on their lives and careers.