As backlash against Jimmy Kimmel reverberated through politics and media last week, everyone seemed to weigh in with their opinion. Now we can add one of the most influential voices in right-wing media as podcaster Joe Rogan pushing back in defense of the late-night host, highlighting a widening divide within the conservative movement.
Rogan used a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience to defend Kimmel’s controversial joke about First Lady Melania Trump, suggesting the outrage surrounding the mock White House Correspondents' bit is less about hate speech and more about timing and politics.
“No one cared on Saturday until Saturday night when the assassination attempt, and then all the sudden, everyone’s blaming Kimmel,” Rogan said, agreeing with Adam Carolla’s earlier assessment that the backlash was performative.
The comment goes against the narrative being pushed by President Donald Trump and his allies, who have repeatedly called for Kimmel to be fired in the wake of referring to Melania as an "expectant widow," arguing it contributed to a broader climate of harmful rhetoric that ultimately led to the gunman attack at the real WHCD.
However, Rogan framed the situation differently. The podcaster sees it less as a case of a comedian crossing a line and more as an example of selective outrage driven by political incentives. It’s a notable stance because of his unique position in the current media landscape.
While not a traditional political figure, Rogan has become one of the most influential voices among conservative and independent audiences, frequently hosting politicians, commentators, and ther figures aligned with the right. At the same time, his background as a stand-up comedian has also inspired his defense of free speech and the role of comedy. No matter what side it comes from, Rogen has resisted calls for censorship, even when the material is controversial.
That perspective has often led Rogan to criticize “cancel culture." In defending Kimmel, he appears to be applying that same principle, even to someone whose politics differ from his own.
So now we know what side of the argument Rogan lands. On one side are political leaders making calls for consequences, including pressure on ABC and its parent company, The Walt Disney Company. They include the Trumps, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, and commentator Bill O'Reilly. On the other are figures like Rogan, Carolla, and select GOP lawmakers who see the controversy as an overreaction.
For Kimmel, the support from Rogan may not change the immediate pressure he’s facing. But the divide does contrast with the late-night host's Charlie Kirk controversy, where it seemed like there was a united push against him. And having influential voices like Rogan backing Kimmel likely makes it easier for Disney to read the room and stick by its host.
President Trump hasn't backed down in attacking Kimmel. But the longer he drags out this "controversy," the more isolated he may become as others on the right move on to bigger issues beyond late-night TV jokes.
Add us as a preferred source on Google