Oscars 2024: Four reasons why Jimmy Kimmel could be called a bad host
After Jimmy Kimmel's Oscars 2024 hosting gig ended, viewers had a range of responses and viewpoints regarding his performance. Although some valued his tactful demeanor and nuanced political allusions, others critiqued his drab delivery of monologues and hosting style.
From addressing delicate subjects to handling criticism, Kimmel's hosting at the Oscars 2024 demonstrated both good and bad points. This also earned him mixed reactions from viewers, many of whom enjoyed his wit and ready humor, whereas others felt he did a poor job and could not engage with his audience.
Disclaimer: The views expressed here are solely those of the author.
List of reasons why Jimmy Kimmel's hosting for the Oscars 2024 did not sit well with viewers
1. Lackluster monologue
A lot of people thought Jimmy Kimmel's Oscars 2024 opening monologue was weak and uninspiring. Many found the jokes to be unfunny, despite his attempts to discuss a range of subjects. In particular, his mention of Hailey Bieber, seemingly in reference to "nepo-babies" drew heat from fans. During his monologue, Kimmel said:
"Heavily botoxed, Hailey Bieber smoothie drinking, diabetes prescription abusing, gluten-sensitive nepo babies with perpetually shivering chihuahuas."
He also included Hollywood's reaction to international conflicts and uncertainties in the industry.
Overall, the content was deemed uninspired and "safe" by many, with jokes that didn't exactly make the audience laugh or engage them.
2. Response to Donald Trump's criticism
Jimmy Kimmel was called one of the "worst" hosts ever by former President Donald Trump, who openly criticized his hosting performance at the Oscars in a Truth Social post. Trump mocked Kimmel's opening monologue and proposed that another ABC star take Kimmel's place.
"Has there EVER been a WORSE HOST than Jimmy Kimmel at The Oscars? His opening was that of a less than average person trying too hard to be something which he is not, and never can be. Get rid of Kimmel and perhaps replace him with another washed-up but cheap ABC ‘talent,’ George Slopanopoulos. He would make everybody on stage look bigger, stronger, and more glamorous."
In response, Kimmel quipped during the awards:
"Well, thank you, President Trump. Thank you for watching, I'm surprised. Isn't it past your jail time?"
Despite the witty comeback, many fans seemed to agree with Trump's assessment of Kimmel as a host.
3. Safe hosting style
The sharpness and edge that one would anticipate from the host of a significant awards ceremony such as the Oscars 2024 was absent from Kimmel's delivery, which was deemed stiff and deadpan by many.
A generally lukewarm reception resulted from his gentle ribbing style and safe material failing to strike a strong chord with the audience. His hosting style came across as predictable and mediocre due to the absence of audacious humor or daring commentary.
4. Ineffectiveness in addressing sensitive topics
Jimmy Kimmel made an effort to touch on controversial issues during the ceremony, such as Hollywood's response to international conflicts and business challenges, but his treatment of these topics was criticized for being shallow and ineffective.
Besides being unable to achieve a meaningful balance between humor and audience engagement, Kimmel's jokes and commentary on serious issues also seemed to be in poor taste, as per many netizens.
In particular, a joke about Robert Downey Jr.'s history with substance abuse left fans fuming. In his opening monologue, Kimmel stated:
"This is the highest point of Robert Downey Jr’s career… well, one of the highest points.”
Netizens flooded social media with criticism aimed at Kimmel for cracking jokes on sensitive issues such as drug use. Many even demanded that he apologize to Downey Jr.
Therefore, even though Jimmy Kimmel engaged the audience and included them in many segments throughout the show, his overall impact was minimal. This led to the audience not connecting with Kimmel during the Oscars 2024 ceremony.
Those who weren't able to watch the Oscars 2024 live can watch them later on-demand on several streaming services, including Fubo TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream.
Hollywood's elite gathered at the Dolby Theatre for the 96th Academy Awards, which delivered glitz, glamour, and unforgettable highlights.