Late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel made a joke about Hunter Biden during his opening monologue at the Oscars on Sunday.
The joke compared Hollywood figures Steven Spielberg and Seth Rogen to the “Joe and Hunter Biden of Hollywood.”
Kimmel then jokingly asked Rogen what drugs he was on, saying “mushrooms, right?” While some viewers found the joke humorous, others criticized Kimmel for making light of Hunter Biden’s well-documented struggles with addiction and substance abuse.
Many people took to social media to express their disapproval of the joke, calling it distasteful and disrespectful.
Hunter Biden has been open about his past struggles with addiction, including his use of drugs such as cocaine and his battle with alcoholism.
Some argue that Kimmel’s joke highlights the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health issues, suggesting that they can be used as a form of entertainment or a punchline.
On the other hand, some argue that Kimmel was simply making a harmless joke and that viewers are being overly sensitive.
Jimmy Kimmel calls Steven Spielberg and Seth Rogen the “Joe and Hunter Biden of Hollywood” at the #Oscars:
— The Recount (@therecount) March 13, 2023
“Seth, what are you on right now? Be honest … mushrooms, right?” pic.twitter.com/rJBWvanqnE
They argue that comedians are expected to push boundaries and make jokes that may offend some people.
Regardless of one’s opinion on the matter, it is clear that the joke has sparked controversy and highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding the use of personal attacks in comedy.
While comedians have traditionally been able to get away with more provocative material, the rise of social media has made it easier for viewers to call out offensive material and hold comedians accountable.
It remains to be seen whether Kimmel will address the controversy surrounding his joke, or if it will have any lasting impact on his career or public image.
However, it is clear that the debate over the appropriateness of personal attacks in comedy is far from over.
