Danica Patrick has never shied away from speaking her mind, and her latest comments on Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late-night TV are no exception. The former NASCAR star weighed in after Kimmel was suspended and briefly removed from ABC-affiliated stations following his controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk’s shooter. Patrick praised the principle behind the suspension and offered a candid assessment of Kimmel’s comedic approach, warning that his career depends on choices he makes moving forward.
Key Highlights
Jimmy Kimmel’s show was reinstated by Disney after suspension.
Danica Patrick criticized Kimmel’s “stupid, distasteful emotional jabs.”
Patrick emphasized the role of money and employer choice in entertainment.
Patrick has a political background supporting Trump and Turning Point USA.
She recently attended Charlie Kirk’s memorial service with high-profile political figures.
Danica Patrick’s Take on Kimmel’s Return
Patrick shared her opinion via Instagram on September 22, noting that an employer has full discretion over hiring and firing decisions. She questioned whether Kimmel can adapt his approach to remain relevant in the competitive late-night landscape.
“Totally fine. An employer has a choice to hire and fire and run a business. I don’t think he is as funny as he used to be, but that little problem will take care of itself in time. He will either start making real jokes and not stupid distasteful emotional jabs or he won’t. When I raced I never talked about politics and religion. I understood the unspoken agreement to be PC.” – Danica Patrick
Patrick also highlighted the practical realities of television and the entertainment industry, pointing out that financial performance is the ultimate measure of success.
“All that is ever at play, is money. And you better believe if it’s not flowing, something goes. Clock is ticking again.” – Danica Patrick
Political Engagement and Perspective
Beyond her commentary on Kimmel, Patrick has been increasingly active in political circles. She publicly supported Donald Trump during his second presidential bid and collaborated with Charlie Kirk on podcast episodes. Her involvement with Turning Point USA, a right-wing youth organization, includes speaking at AmericaFest conferences in both 2023 and 2024.
Patrick recently attended the Charlie Kirk memorial service in Glendale, Arizona, an event also attended by former President Trump and Vice President JD Vance. She shared images from the event with a heartfelt note reflecting on Kirk’s influence and legacy.
“Charlie would ask… God use me for your will. Well, none of us wanted this, but it seems God has a pretty big plan for you… because not even death could stop your mission. In fact, it’s stronger than ever. Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Danica Patrick
Her involvement in political events underscores the way Patrick’s public persona has evolved since her NASCAR career, extending her platform to commentary and civic engagement.
Media Career and Broadcasting
Patrick has successfully transitioned into media, serving as a pundit for Formula 1 on Sky Sports. She also covers high-profile events like the Indy 500, bringing racing expertise and insight to a global audience. This experience gives her perspective on how public figures, including entertainers like Kimmel, navigate scrutiny and professional challenges. Patrick’s commentary combines directness with a clear understanding of career risk, informed by her own experiences in high-pressure sports and media environments.
News in Brief: “Money”: Danica Patrick Gives Straight Take on Jimmy Kimmel’s Return
Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension was lifted by Disney, allowing him to return to hosting late-night TV, following backlash over comments about Charlie Kirk’s shooter. Danica Patrick weighed in, criticizing Kimmel’s approach as “stupid, distasteful emotional jabs” and highlighting that money and employer choice drive decisions in entertainment. Patrick, a Trump supporter and Turning Point USA collaborator, recently attended Kirk’s memorial service with high-profile politicians. She urged Kimmel to adapt his comedy to remain relevant.
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