NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers has responded to late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s criticism following Rodgers’ suggestion that Kimmel might be named in Jeffrey Epstein-related court documents. Kimmel, in a 13-minute monologue on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” on Jan. 8, addressed Rodgers’ comments for the first time since threatening legal action on Jan. 3.
Kimmel criticized Rodgers, saying, “Aaron Rodgers has a very high opinion of himself. Because he had success on the football field, he believes himself to be an extraordinary being.” He added, “The idea that his brain is just average is unfathomable to him.”
Rodgers, appearing on “The Pat McAfee Show” on Jan. 9, clarified his earlier remarks but did not offer an apology. “I totally understand how serious allegations of p**ophilia would be. So for him to be upset about that, I get it,” Rodgers said. He emphasized, “I’m not stupid enough to accuse you of that with absolutely zero evidence. That’s ridiculous.”
The NFL star expressed relief that Kimmel was not on any list and wished to move forward, stating, “I don’t give a s— what he says about me. As long as he understands what I actually said and that I’m not accusing him of being on a list, I’m all for moving forward.”
Rodgers had initially mentioned Kimmel in connection with Epstein on the Jan. 2 episode of “The Pat McAfee Show,” saying, “There’s a lot of people, including Jimmy Kimmel, who’s really hoping that doesn’t come out.” He referred to court documents from a 2015 lawsuit, which included names associated with Epstein.
Kimmel, in his monologue, firmly stated he had no connection to Epstein: “I don’t know Jeffrey Epstein, I’ve never met Jeffrey Epstein. I am not on a list, I was not on a plane or an island or anything, ever.”
McAfee apologized for Rodgers’ comments on his show on Jan. 3, acknowledging why Kimmel felt offended and suggesting Rodgers was merely “trying to talk s—.”
Kimmel had previously threatened legal action, asserting, “Your reckless words put my family in danger. Keep it up and we will debate the facts further in court.” He also noted that his past jokes about Rodgers might have prompted the quarterback’s comments.
Kimmel emphasized the seriousness of the accusation, saying, “But saying someone is a p**ophile is not an opinion, nor is it ‘trash talk’ — sorry, Pat McAfee.” He differentiated his show’s humor from fabricating lies.
Kimmel expressed his desire for an apology from Rodgers, though he doubted it would happen, saying, “If he does, you know what I’ll do? I’ll accept his apology and move on.”
