Jimmy Kimmel on the pope’s death: ‘Now we know JD Vance is bad at praying, too’

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"Jimmy Kimmel Critiques Trump’s Religious Messaging Following Pope Francis's Death"

Jimmy Kimmel on the pope’s death: ‘Now we know JD Vance is bad at praying, too’ analysis cover image The Guardian 5.6
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/apr/22/jimmy-kimmel-pope-francis-jd-vance
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TruthLens AI Summary

On a recent episode of his late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel delivered a critical recap of Donald Trump's contradictory messages regarding religion and the recent death of Pope Francis. Kimmel humorously noted how Trump, while expressing Easter greetings on Truth Social, managed to juxtapose a warm message wishing peace with a darker, inflammatory one targeting various groups he labeled as 'Radical Left Lunatics.' Kimmel quipped about Trump's messaging style, comparing it to that of a notorious fictional killer, highlighting the stark contrast in Trump's tone during the Easter holiday. He also reflected on the pope's death, describing Francis as 'kind and humble,' and remarked on the timing of his passing, suggesting it was a deliberate choice to avoid overshadowing the significance of Easter Sunday, calling it the pope's version of a 'mic drop.'

Kimmel also touched on Pope Francis's last meeting with JD Vance, a recently converted Catholic and vice-president of the United States, humorously implying that Vance's prayers may not have been effective given the pope's passing shortly after their encounter. Kimmel's jokes extended to the White House Easter egg roll, where he commented on the appearances of Trump and his wife, Melania, and noted Trump's absence from church services on Easter Sunday, as he opted to play golf instead. The late-night host's commentary encapsulated the absurdity he perceived in Trump's claims of 'bringing religion back' to America, especially in light of the former president's choice to spend the holiday on the golf course rather than attending mass. Through his humor, Kimmel critiqued the inconsistencies in Trump's public persona and religious claims, all while honoring the memory of Pope Francis.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The news article primarily focuses on Jimmy Kimmel's commentary regarding the recent death of Pope Francis and the contradictory messages from former President Donald Trump surrounding Easter. Kimmel's humor serves as a lens through which he critiques political figures and their relationship with religion, particularly in light of significant events like the pope's passing.

Contradictory Messaging

Kimmel highlights the stark contrast in Trump's Easter messages—one that is warm and celebratory, followed by a darker, divisive rant against various groups. This juxtaposition is designed to showcase Trump's hypocrisy, particularly in how he uses religious occasions for political gain. By framing Trump's comments in a humorous light, Kimmel aims to provoke thought about the sincerity of such figures in their expressions of faith.

Impact of Pope Francis's Death

The commentary on Pope Francis's death is layered with respect and humor. Kimmel acknowledges the pope's character while also making light of the timing of his passing, suggesting it was meticulously orchestrated to not overshadow the significance of Easter. This approach not only honors the pope but also reflects on the nature of public figures and their legacies.

Critique of JD Vance

Kimmel's joke about JD Vance, who recently met with the pope, is a strategic move to criticize Vance’s sincerity in prayer. This adds another layer to Kimmel's narrative, suggesting that even those who present themselves as devout may not be genuine in their actions. It draws attention to the broader theme of authenticity in politics, especially among newly converted individuals seeking to align with religious institutions for political mileage.

Public Perception and Manipulation

The article could be seen as a way to shape public perception about political figures and their use of religion. By exposing perceived insincerities and contrasting messages, Kimmel encourages the audience to question the motives behind such public displays of piety. This could be interpreted as a subtle form of manipulation, aiming to guide the public toward skepticism regarding political figures’ claims about their faith.

Broader Context and Relevance

In the larger media landscape, Kimmel’s commentary aligns with a trend where late-night hosts act as satirists, reflecting and critiquing current events. This style of journalism plays a significant role in shaping cultural narratives, especially among audiences who consume news primarily through entertainment platforms. The timing of the pope's death and the commentary surrounding it may resonate with ongoing discussions about the intersection of politics and religion in contemporary America.

Audience Engagement

Kimmel’s comedic style appeals particularly to audiences who appreciate humor as a means of addressing serious subjects. His commentary likely resonates with those who are critical of the political establishment and are looking for a humorous take on the often somber nature of political discourse. This can create a sense of community among like-minded individuals who share similar views on politics and religion.

Potential Economic and Political Implications

While the article itself may not directly influence stock markets or economic indicators, it contributes to the ongoing dialogue about political figures and their actions. The perception of leaders can have ripple effects in various sectors, especially in political funding or public support for policies related to religion and immigration.

In summary, the article serves a dual purpose: to entertain and to critique. It highlights the contradictions in political messaging, particularly regarding faith and sincerity, while engaging an audience that seeks to navigate the complexities of contemporary political narratives.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2025/apr/22/jimmy-kimmel-pope-francis-jd-vance

With several hosts on post-Easter holiday, Jimmy Kimmel recapsDonald Trump’s hypocritical messages on religion and the death ofPope Francisat the age of 88.

“Between Easter and 4/20, a lot of stuff got rolled yesterday,” saidJimmy Kimmelon Monday evening, and “our Peep-headed president got in the Easter spirit yesterday” with an “unusually warm” message on Truth Social wishing “peace and joy for all who celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ”.

But Trump then followed up with a darker message: “Happy Easter to all, including the Radical Left Lunatics who are fighting and scheming hard to bring Murderers, Drug Lords, Dangerous Prisoners, the Mentally Insane, and well known MS-13 Gang Members and Wife Beaters, back into our Country.” (The post went on at length in similar fashion.)

“It’s Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde your tax returns,” Kimmel joked. “We have a president who addresses the nation like the Zodiac Killer on Easter Sunday.”

Kimmel then pivoted to thedeath of Pope Francis, who “seemed to be a kind and humble man”. At 88, Francis had endured months of poor health, “but he sucked it up, he rallied, he delivered a message at Easter mass, and then he passed away this morning,” Kimmel explained. “Is there anything more Catholic than waiting until Monday to die so you don’t upstage Jesus Christ? I don’t think there is. It’s the pope version of a mic drop, really.”

In the hours before he died, the pope met with JD Vance, vice-president of the US and a recently converted Catholic. “What a way to go”, Kimmel deadpanned. “‘Holy Father, do you have any last wishes?’ ‘Not this, not this.’”

Following the meeting at the Vatican, Vance took to X, posting: “Today I met with the Holy Father Pope Francis. I am grateful for his invitation to meet, and I pray for his good health.”

“So now we know JD Vance is bad at praying, too,” Kimmel laughed.

Kimmel also remarked on the White House Easter egg roll, for which both Trump and his wife appeared at the White House. “We see Melania and the Easter Bunny on the same schedule – once a year at this time,” Kimmel quipped.

Trump took the opportunity to say a few words about the late pope: “He was a good man, worked hard, he loved the world and it was an honor to do that.”

“What a beautiful farewell,” Kimmel deadpanned. “What are the chances that Trump declares himself pope? They’re not zero.”

Naturally, Trump also used the opportunity to claim that he was “bringing religion back” in America.

“Seems notable to mention that the guy who is bringing religion back did not go to church yesterday,” said Kimmel. “He took a mulligan on mass this year” and instead played golf at his own club outside Washington DC. “Trump spent his Easter praising Jesus on the golf course,” Kimmel mocked. “He’s never closer to God than when he’s out there on the grass cheating at golf with his friends.”

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Source: The Guardian