Beverly Hills, Calif. – The late-night host known for his sharp wit and candid commentary, Jimmy Kimmel, was recently honored with a prestigious award, though not from the political figure many might expect. Kimmel, a vocal critic of former President Donald Trump, received the President’s Award at the International Cinematographers Guild (ICG) Publicists Awards. The organization recognized him for his “strength of character, his resilience and his unwavering adherence to principle in the face of adversity.”
The award was presented by ICG national president John Lindley. This accolade comes several months after “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” experienced a brief hiatus, with the show being suspended for six days following remarks Kimmel, 58, made concerning conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
During his acceptance speech at the Beverly Wilshire hotel on March 13, Kimmel humorously addressed the initial confusion surrounding the award’s name. “When they told me I’d be getting the President’s Award, I said, ‘Wow, that’s great! I thought he hated me!’ He called me a ‘no talent’ and tried to force me off the air,” Kimmel recounted to the audience. He then clarified, “Then I found out the president was John, so thank you, John. I like you more than him.”
Kimmel then shifted his focus to the publicists being celebrated, injecting humor with a jab at actor Timothée Chalamet, who had recently faced backlash for comments suggesting that ballet and opera hold little public interest. “Publicists have a very difficult job, especially when their clients have strong opinions about opera and ballet,” Kimmel quipped. He reflected on the evolving nature of publicity, adding, “I love them. Remember when they used to say there’s no such thing as bad publicity? That was a lot of Kanyes and Diddys ago.”
The comedian was treated to a pre-recorded introduction from actor Ben Affleck and Kimmel’s well-known “rival,” Matt Damon. Damon delivered a colorful message for his longtime adversary, stating, “ICG? More like ‘I see you, Jimmy.’ The only thing you ever do publicly is suck.”
After playfully returning some of Damon’s barbs, Kimmel expressed sincere gratitude to the audience for their backing during the controversy with Charlie Kirk and the subsequent criticism from the Trump administration. “I especially want to thank you for your support over the last year,” Kimmel stated. “I heard from many of you personally. I heard from many of your clients over my brief vacation in September, and I will never forget it. I do want to thank you.”
Honorees and Humorous Remarks
The 2026 luncheon saw a variety of individuals from the entertainment industry receive accolades. Journalists and publicists were among those honored, alongside Noah Wyle, star of “The Pitt,” who was named Television Showperson of the Year.
Actress Kate Hudson, nominated for an Oscar for best actress that same weekend, also took the stage. The star of “Song Sung Blue” was celebrated as Motion Picture Showperson of the Year.
Hudson used the occasion to pay tribute to her long-time publicist, Brad Cafarelli, who has represented her since her breakout role in “Almost Famous” at the age of 19. “He’s seen me throughout every version of me in this industry,” Hudson, 46, shared. “My early years, my learning years, my wild years − and then the ‘figuring it out’ years. He probably experienced a few interviews that he would love a redo on.”
She offered a lighthearted apology to the publicists in attendance on behalf of her fellow Hollywood A-listers. “I have a feeling that the people in this room are much more used to putting out fires than starting them,” Hudson remarked with a smile. “A lot of us artists have very excited amygdalas. So I’d like to thank you for being our prefrontal cortex when we need it.”
The event highlighted the crucial role publicists play in navigating the complexities of the entertainment industry, often acting as the steadying influence for their high-profile clients. The camaraderie and mutual respect among the honorees and the ICG members were palpable throughout the evening, underscoring the shared challenges and triumphs within the public relations field. The blend of humor and heartfelt appreciation made for a memorable celebration of those who skillfully manage public perception and support the careers of stars.
