Jimmy Kimmel lit up the White House state dinner with his humor. Speaking before President Biden, the comedian poked fun at the guest list. He joked about the absence of former President Donald Trump.
“The last time I was in this room was in 2016 when President Obama hosted the Nordic state dinner,” Kimmel said. “Back then we had one fewer president in the United States, which I think we can all agree was a better number.”
He didn’t shy away from addressing politics. “It’s good to be here with you,” Kimmel told Biden. “It’s nice to be anywhere with you while we still can.” The room laughed as the jab landed.
The dinner honored Kenyan President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto. It marked the first state dinner for an African nation since 2008. Biden praised the “enduring partnership” between the U.S. and Kenya.
Kimmel joked about Biden’s age, too. “I’m honored to be here with our president,” he said. “A man who proved once and for all that 80 is the new 60 — Celsius.” The audience roared with laughter.
He also took aim at himself. “This is surreal for me. I mean, I grew up watching ‘The West Wing’ and now I’m actually in the West Wing,” Kimmel said. “I feel like Charlie Sheen in ‘Platoon.’”
The comedian even found a way to weave in the media. “It’s like a real-life episode of ‘Veep’ but with less swearing,” Kimmel quipped. Guests chuckled and clinked their glasses.
Kimmel ended on a heartfelt note. “Thank you, Mr. President, for inviting me. I will never forget this night,” he said. The evening closed with applause and smiles all around.