The Hill
In the fiery clash between comedy and politics, tensions are boiling over yet again as late-night comedian Seth Meyers delivers a sharp comeback to President Trump's relentless criticism. Imagine the spotlight on a stage where jokes collide with presidential rants—it's a showdown that's got everyone talking!
On Monday, Meyers addressed Trump's recent assault on the jokes he cracked last week, which mocked the president's harsh take on how aircraft carriers are constructed. For those new to this, aircraft carriers are massive naval ships that launch fighter jets into the sky using powerful catapults—think of them as giant slingshots for planes. Trump's comments had sparked widespread debate, and Meyers' humor highlighted what many saw as an odd fixation on technical details.
Trump, posting on Truth Social, branded Meyers as 'deranged' and 'untalented,' venting frustration that the comedian went on and on about his remarks on these seafaring behemoths.
During his opening show on NBC this week, Meyers hit back with a nod to the New Yorker's philosophy: 'In general, I try to live by the New Yorker’s creed. When someone is ranting and raving about you, ignore them. Chances are they’re just going to move on and rant about something else.'
'But there is one thing that I simply have to address,' Meyers went on. 'You can call me untalented. You can call me deranged. … But I’m not the one who talks endlessly about catapults on aircraft carriers!'
He emphasized, 'You’re the one who talks endlessly about catapults on aircraft carriers.'
And this is the part most people miss—Meyers isn't just defending his turf; he's part of a growing trend of late-night hosts facing Trump's wrath and that of his supporters. This includes a string of comedians who've been targeted, as the administration ramps up pressure on major broadcast networks for their coverage, which Trump claims unfairly slams him. It's a classic case of the powerful pushing back against the satirists who prick their egos, but here's where it gets controversial: Should political leaders really have the last word in silencing humor, or is this an attack on free speech? Some argue it's just tough love from the top, while others see it as an overreach that chills creativity.
Meyers also took a swipe last month at Trump's aspirations to snag a Nobel Peace Prize, adding fuel to the comedic fire.
In recent weeks, the comedian has rallied with other late-night stars to support peers who've been pulled from the airwaves. For instance, following the announcement that CBS would wrap up 'The Late Show' next May—meaning host Stephen Colbert's run ends—Meyers blasted the agreement struck between Paramount (CBS's parent company) and the Trump administration, speaking out for Colbert. He also stood by ABC's Jimmy Kimmel after a brief suspension for remarks following the tragic shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
This ongoing feud raises big questions: Is comedy a safe space for poking fun at leaders, or are we seeing the erosion of boundaries between entertainment and politics? What do you think—should politicians let laughs roll off their backs, or is there a line that shouldn't be crossed? Do you agree with Meyers' defense, or do you side with Trump's view that such humor crosses into disrespect? Jump into the comments and let’s debate this!
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