Los Angeles, CA – On the first episode of his show this year, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel took aim at NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers for his recent comments regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Without directly quoting any news organizations, Kimmel addressed Rodgers’ insinuation that he was involved in the release of court documents related to Epstein, the convicted sex offender who died by suicide in a New York City prison.
Rodgers made these remarks during an appearance on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show,” suggesting a connection between Kimmel and the unsealing of the documents. Kimmel quickly responded on social media, denying any ties to Epstein and even threatening legal action against the NFL MVP.
Although Rodgers promised to address his comments on McAfee’s show the following day, Kimmel beat him to the punch. He began his monologue by refuting any association with Epstein and delving into the possible motivation behind Rodgers’ accusations. According to Kimmel, Rodgers was likely upset because the late-night host had made fun of his appearance and his controversial theory that UFO sightings were being used as a distraction from the Epstein scandal.
The late-night host further criticized Rodgers, claiming that the quarterback had an inflated ego and believed his success on the football field made him superior to others. Kimmel highlighted Rodgers’ perceived arrogance by mentioning his belief that he knew more about science than scientists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kimmel also noted that Rodgers was exhibiting the Dunning-Kruger effect, a cognitive bias in which individuals overestimate their abilities in a particular domain. The late-night host mentioned Rodgers’ tenure as a guest host on “Jeopardy!” and suggested that this experience had boosted his confidence and knowledge.
While Kimmel acknowledged Rodgers’ right to express his opinions, he emphasized that accusing someone of being a pedophile crossed a line. The late-night host expressed his willingness to move on if Rodgers apologized, but he doubted that the quarterback would take that step.
Kimmel concluded his monologue by joking that Rodgers had managed to make the struggling New York Jets even worse. The Jets hold the dubious title of having the longest NFL playoff drought, spanning 13 seasons.
In summary, Jimmy Kimmel responded to Aaron Rodgers’ comments concerning Jeffrey Epstein without directly referencing any news organizations. Kimmel denied any involvement with Epstein and criticized Rodgers for his perceived arrogance and ignorance. The late-night host also called out Rodgers for accusing him of being a pedophile and expressed doubt that Rodgers would apologize.