**Kimmel and Damon: A Comedic Rivalry Reignited in Brooklyn**
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Jimmy Kimmel’s ongoing comedic rivalry with Matt Damon was brought to life once more during a special live episode of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* in Brooklyn. The actor made a surprise appearance on Monday, 28 September, adding a twist to Kimmel’s monologue as the host entertained his audience in New York City.
The two have shared a long-standing playful feud that dates back to 2005, becoming one of television’s most memorable comedic duels. Their latest interaction unfolded as Kimmel was running a week-long series of special episodes in Brooklyn, marking his return to the borough for the seventh time.
As Kimmel warmed up the audience with his trademark humour, he began discussing the upcoming baseball postseason, focusing on the fierce rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox. In a clip that quickly made its way onto social media platforms, Kimmel noted, “Tomorrow the baseball postseason begins with a three-game wildcard series between the bitterest of all rivals, the Yankees and the Red Sox.” Just as he prepared to dive deeper into the topic, Damon’s voice pierced through the room, shouting, “Go Sox! Go Sox!” while wearing a Red Sox cap, signalling his support for his team.
Kimmel, quick to respond, mockingly addressed the audience member in the Red Sox headwear, saying, “You, the loser in the Red Sox cap, what is your name?” To which Damon playfully retorted, “You know my name.” Their banter captivated the packed audience as Kimmel dismissed Damon, joking, “I have no idea what your name is and honestly, I don’t care, because it’s time for the ceremonial throwing out of the first Red Sox fan.” He then called on security to remove Damon from the venue.
Adding to the mischief, Damon declared, “Wait a minute, I’m not even trying to get on the show. I’m just here with family!” At this point, he proceeded to reveal that he was accompanied by Kimmel’s mother, Joann, and his sister, Jill, who were both in the audience. This unexpected twist caused Kimmel to react with disbelief and comedy, asserting, “My mother and my sister? Get him out of here right now!”
The playful chaos escalated as security escorted Damon, along with Kimmel’s family, from the auditorium. Kimmel, still on stage, shouted after them, “You don’t bring my mother and my sister with you!” To which Damon cheekily responded, “Listen, I’ll tell you what. You can keep me off the show; you can’t keep me out of your mom!”
The uproarious episode continued even after Damon’s departure, with Kimmel jokingly advising the audience to “probably get tested for HPV.”
The history between Kimmel and Damon is not only a source of entertainment but a testament to their enduring friendship amidst the jests. Their comedic feud began when Kimmel established a running gag of ending episodes with an apology to Damon for running out of time, despite the actor never being scheduled to appear. This playful animosity took a different turn when Damon made his debut as a guest in September 2006, only for Kimmel to cut him off, perpetuating their rivalry.
Attempts at reconciliation have been made, including a truce suggested in March 2023, instigated by their mutual friend, Ben Affleck. However, Kimmel reignited the comic tension merely a year later while hosting the Oscars, during which he played a clip showing a dog, Messi, urinating on Damon’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame—a moment that left audiences in stitches.
Kimmel’s current week of shows is taking place at the Howard Gilman Opera House at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, where he will continue showcasing his trademark blend of humour and celebrity banter until Friday, 2 October. His flair for entertaining has kept audiences engaged and delighted, with the recent interaction with Damon a reminder of why their comedic rivalry resonates with fans.
With Kimmel continuing to host and Damon effortlessly slipping into the role of a surprising guest, their comedic saga appears to be far from over, keeping both their fans eagerly awaiting what might unfold next.