Jelly Roll Fires Back After Trump Joke Ignites Backlash
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Jelly Roll has responded to the controversy surrounding his recent jokes on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Jimmy Kimmel has made it a summer tradition to take a sabbatical from his late-night hosting duties, leaving his famous desk in the hands of some of his celebrity friends. This week, Jelly Roll is taking over hosting duties from August 24 through 27.
Throughout his four-night run, the country star welcomed a lineup of notable guests, including actor Glen Powell, author Jay Shetty, comedian Leanne Morgan, and musical guest Stevie Nicks.
RELATED: JELLY ROLL HONORS DOLLY PARTON WITH HEARTFELT TRIBUTE ON JIMMY KIMMEL LIVE
Jelly Roll’s Donald Trump Joke Ruffles Feathers
During his first night as host on the late-night show, Jelly Roll made a joke about President Donald Trump that did not land well with some audiences. The “Save Me” singer cited a Washington Post article reporting that Trump had gained weight, reaching nearly 240 lbs, raising concerns among his doctors.
Jelly Roll, who has lost 300 lbs over the last three years, joked:
“That means I’ve lost an entire Donald Trump… And let’s be honest, based on his approval ratings, it seems like most of the country wants to do the same thing.”
He added, sarcastically, that we should not make fun of someone for their weight, because the President would never do that. Immediately, the camera cuts to a compilation of clips of Trump making comments that many would consider fat-shaming.
Jelly Roll commented, “Well, if that ain’t the pot calling the kettle fat,” and added:
“Well, Mr. President, from one fat pig to another, take it from me that physical fitness is very important.”
Watch the segment in the video below. Note: Some language may not be suitable for a young audience.
Jelly Roll Responds
On Tuesday night’s episode (Aug 25), Jelly Roll addressed how his “poking fun” at the President “really messed with people’s heads.” The Tennessee native commented on the peculiarity of the situation and admitted:
“I have to say, as a former felon and drug dealer who has lost 300 lb, has tattoos all over his face, and won three Grammys, this is the weirdest thing I’ve ever done to stun people.”
While the musician’s jokes elicited reactions from both sides of the political spectrum, the main criticism was that he did not treat the President with respect and dignity. To that, Jelly responded:
“I want to remind y’all that I go by the name Jelly Roll. I don’t even treat myself with reverence and dignity.”
He doubled down and said:
“Now, let’s be honest for a second. Any US president should be able to handle a few jokes, right? They should also be able to handle gas prices, healthcare, and the occasional international conflict, but beggars can’t be choosers.”
Ultimately, Jelly Roll stood firm on his stance and ended with a punch:
“Look, y’all, I get it that some people are mad at me for goofing on Trump, but if you wanted me to make jokes about Kamala Harris, you should have voted for her.”
Hear Jelly Roll’s response to critics of his jokes about President Trump in the video below.
