In an era dominated by social media spats, few rivalries capture public attention like the ongoing feud between comedian and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk. This tension escalated significantly in November 2024, when Musk took to X (formerly Twitter) to brand Kimmel an “insufferable nonsense propaganda puppet.” Kimmel’s biting six-word retort, however, not only dominated headlines but also solidified the comedic host’s reputation for quick-witted comebacks.
Musk’s Provocation: The “Propaganda Puppet” Label
The feud began when Elon Musk—known for his unfiltered commentary on social media—targeted Kimmel with the insult. This came in response to the comedian’s consistent critiques of Musk’s management of X. As well as his broader political and business actions. By calling Kimmel a “propaganda puppet,” Musk implied that the late-night host’s jokes and commentary served a biased agenda rather than being impartial humor.
Jimmy Kimmel’s Sharp Retort: “Elon. Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Idiot.”
Never one to shy away from confrontation, Kimmel replied with a succinct yet scathing six-word tweet: “Elon. Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Idiot.” This response quickly went viral, with many applauding Kimmel’s ability to undercut Musk’s grandiose persona with a simple jab. The reply perfectly encapsulated Kimmel’s brand of humor—playful yet pointed. It additionally demonstrated his knack for engaging with cultural and political powerhouses.
A History of Tensions
This public spat was not an isolated incident. Kimmel and Musk’s animosity has been brewing for years, fueled by their clashing worldviews. Kimmel has often used his monologue to criticize Musk’s political stances and business decisions. Particularly regarding his management of X and controversial tweets. For instance, Kimmel once lampooned Musk’s handling of misinformation on the platform, joking, “The only thing Musk has successfully engineered lately is outrage.”
Recent Escalations: Musk, Trump, and “Grok”
Their relationship further soured in 2025 when Musk publicly aligned himself with controversial political figures, including former President Donald Trump. In one instance, Musk’s promotion of the AI chatbot “Grok”—which he claimed could answer questions with humor and insight—became fodder for Jimmy Kimmel’s mockery. During a recent monologue, Kimmel quipped, “Why do we need an AI Musk when the human one is already so hard to tolerate?” This jab highlighted the ongoing friction between the two figures. As Kimmel’s criticism extended beyond Musk’s business ventures to his broader influence on culture and politics.
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Public Reaction: Divided Loyalties
The feud has sparked intense debate among fans and critics. Musk’s supporters argue that Kimmel’s jokes reflect a liberal bias common in late-night television, while Kimmel’s fans praise his willingness to speak truth to power. Social media platforms were flooded with reactions to their exchanges, with hashtags like #TeamKimmel and #TeamMusk trending for days. The incident underscored the polarization of public opinion surrounding both figures, who represent starkly different visions of influence and responsibility in modern media.
Kimmel’s Comedic Legacy and Musk’s Controversies
At its core, the Kimmel-Musk feud illustrates the broader cultural clash between entertainment and technology. Kimmel, as a representative of traditional media, leverages humor to critique societal issues, while Musk, as a tech mogul, wields his platform to challenge conventional narratives. Their ongoing exchanges not only reflect their personal grievances but also symbolize the tensions between old and new power structures.
Conclusion: The Feud That Keeps Giving
As Jimmy Kimmel and Elon Musk continue to exchange barbs, their rivalry shows no signs of abating. Kimmel’s six-word retort was more than just a moment of comedic brilliance; it encapsulated the essence of their feud. Sharp, divisive, and undeniably entertaining. Whether viewed as a battle of egos or a clash of ideologies, their exchanges offer a fascinating glimpse into the interplay of humor, power, and influence in the digital age.
