Kimmel Slams Leno, Says Host ‘Totally Sold Out’
Jimmy Kimmel has slammed Jay Leno in a new interview, during which the late-night chat show host’s assessment of his peers is not one that can be really varnished.
Kimmel slams Leno in the latest issue of Rolling Stone, which has yet to hit newsstands.
What precipitated the harsh words from the ABC comic was a discussion of his planned move to the 11:35 slot, which will place Jimmy up against not only Jay Leno but David Letterman.
And while Kimmel slams Leno across the board, he also similarly praises Letterman in an unbridled way — admitting that his competition in the slot is fierce against the long-time late-night host and his legacy.
Kimmel admits Leno is, in his estimation, a talented guy — but Jimmy doesn’t seem to have much respect for the trajectory of his work:
“As a comedian, you can’t not have disdain for what he’s done: He totally sold out … He was a master chef who opened a Burger King.”
Of Letterman, Kimmel — quoted by the New York Daily News — says that even if he out-performs the CBS star in ratings, he still doesn’t feel like he can approach the late-night host’s spot:
“If I beat David Letterman in the ratings, does that mean I’m better than Letterman? … No f—ing way.”
Jimmy Kimmel also addressed fellow younger late-night star Jimmy Fallon, admitting:
“People are going to compare me and him for years to come – we’re being positioned as the Leno and Letterman of the next round. I like it because he’s a very worthy competitor.”
Before the holidays, Jimmy Kimmel did an emotional monologue — as did David Letterman — addressing the tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut and tearing up as he spoke.
