Jimmy Kimmel to Headline Channel 4’s Bold Christmas Broadcast
Jimmy Kimmel will deliver Channel 4’s ‘Alternative Christmas Message’ this December 25, tackling freedom of speech and voicing his concerns about Donald Trump’s possible return to the White House. The special airs at 5:45 p.m. on Christmas Day.
Jimmy Kimmel is set to take the spotlight for Channel 4’s ‘Alternative Christmas Message’ this Christmas Day. Since its launch in 1993, the annual broadcast has served as a counterpoint to the King’s traditional address, featuring a diverse lineup of notable figures over the years. Past speakers have included Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, whistleblower Edward Snowden, and Afghan war veteran Major Andrew Stockton.
Kimmel’s selection comes after a year filled with headlines about his ongoing public feud with Donald Trump. Back in September, Kimmel was briefly suspended from ABC following remarks he made on-air about the reaction to right-wing activist Charlie Kirk’s death. Trump publicly celebrated the suspension. In response, more than 400 entertainment industry figures—including Robert De Niro, Tom Hanks, and Jennifer Aniston—signed an open letter supporting Kimmel, igniting a broader conversation about freedom of speech.
Freedom of Speech in the Spotlight
After a wave of public support, Kimmel returned to his late-night show and recently inked a contract extension through 2027. Despite this, Trump has continued to call for ABC to cancel Kimmel’s program. In a November post on Truth Social, Trump wrote,
“Why does ABC Fake News keep Jimmy Kimmel, a man with NO TALENT and VERY POOR TELEVISION RATINGS, on the air?”
He went on,
“Why do the TV Syndicates put up with it? Also, totally biased coverage. Get the bum off the air!!!”
Kimmel’s upcoming Christmas message will address the current state of free speech and his apprehensions about a potential second Trump presidency. He plans to deliver his remarks in a distinctly British setting, seated with a cup of tea and a tray of cookies. At one point, he’ll remark,
“From a fascism perspective, this has been a really great year.”
Support and Reflection
According to insiders, Kimmel will also use the broadcast to thank those who stood by him during his suspension. One Channel 4 source shared,
“He says the reason that he is back on air is because people spoke out and people protested.”
The ‘Alternative Christmas Message’ featuring Kimmel is scheduled to air on Channel 4 at 5:45 p.m. on December 25.