Kimmel Jokes Melania 'Must Really Hate' Trump Over Epstein Remark

The late-night host suggested the First Lady's speech about Jeffrey Epstein was a jab at her husband.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of shattered glass and glittering sequins, capturing the high-contrast glamour and scandal of celebrity culture.The glitz and grit of celebrity scandal, as Melania Trump's remarks about Jeffrey Epstein stir up new tensions in the former First Couple's relationship.Palm Beach Today

Jimmy Kimmel recently joked that Melania Trump must really hate her husband, former President Donald Trump, after she made remarks about Jeffrey Epstein that Kimmel suggested were a dig at her husband. Melania had spoken at the White House, slamming reports linking her to the convicted financier Epstein, and Kimmel quipped that her decision to address a topic no one was discussing lately showed she must dislike Trump.

Why it matters

Kimmel's comments highlight the ongoing tensions and speculation around the relationship between the former First Couple, as well as the intense public scrutiny they face. The Epstein scandal has been a source of controversy for the Trump administration, and Melania's decision to address the issue directly was seen by some as a rebuke of her husband's handling of the situation.

The details

During his recent monologue, Kimmel joked about Melania Trump hating Donald Trump amid her comments about Jeffrey Epstein. Melania had spoken at the White House, saying 'The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today.' Kimmel asserted that Melania went on to address a topic no one was discussing lately, and that Donald had tried to minimize the chatter about Epstein for six weeks. However, now, after the ceasefire, Melania brought up the topic again. Kimmel quipped, 'She must really hate him. I don't know how else to explain it.'

  • Melania Trump spoke at the White House on April 9, 2026.
  • Jimmy Kimmel made the comments about Melania's remarks during a recent monologue.

The players

Jimmy Kimmel

A late-night talk show host known for his political commentary and satirical takes on current events.

Melania Trump

The former First Lady of the United States, who was married to former President Donald Trump.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who was married to Melania Trump.

Jeffrey Epstein

A convicted financier and sex offender who was associated with many high-profile individuals, including the Trumps.

Ghislaine Maxwell

Epstein's longtime associate who was convicted of sex trafficking and other charges related to his crimes.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today. The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility, and respect. I do not object to their ignorance, but rather, I reject their mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation. I have never been friends with Epstein. Donald and I were invited to the same parties as Epstein from time to time, since overlapping in social circles is common in New York City and Palm Beach.”

— Melania Trump, First Lady

“Two days after the ceasefire, she puts it right back on top. She must really hate him. I don't know how else to explain it.”

— Jimmy Kimmel, Talk Show Host

“This shows you just how smoothly things are running there. For whatever reason, she didn't ask. She didn't give him a heads-up. She just went right out in front of the cameras and fired away.”

— Jimmy Kimmel, Talk Show Host

The takeaway

Kimmel's comments highlight the ongoing tensions and speculation around the relationship between the former First Couple, as well as the intense public scrutiny they face. The Epstein scandal has been a source of controversy for the Trump administration, and Melania's decision to address the issue directly was seen by some as a rebuke of her husband's handling of the situation.