Kathy Griffin Reaches Out to Jimmy Kimmel on ‘Day 1’ of His Suspension
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Comedian Kathy Griffin recently shared her unwavering support for friend Jimmy Kimmel during his suspension from his ABC late-night show in September. Kimmel faced repercussions for remarks he made regarding the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Griffin revealed in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE that she reached out to Kimmel immediately when news of his suspension broke.
Having faced her own share of controversy following the infamous 2017 photoshoot depicting her holding a severed head resembling President Donald Trump, Griffin found Kimmel’s situation to be particularly “triggering.” Expressing gratitude for Kimmel’s past support, Griffin stated, “It’s been really triggering for me because Jimmy was the only one who would have me on his show during all those years I was canceled.”
In her latest YouTube comedy special, “My Life on the PTSD List,” Griffin delves into the struggles she has endured in the aftermath of the photo scandal. Sharing personal challenges such as a pill addiction, a suicide attempt, a lung cancer diagnosis, and a divorce from her second husband, Griffin reflects on the tumultuous events that have shaped her life in recent years.
Reflecting on her comedic journey that initially focused on pop culture and light-hearted topics, Griffin described a shift following the photo scandal that led to intense scrutiny, investigation by the Justice Department, and even being placed on the No-Fly List. The fallout from the scandal resulted in strained relationships as many of Griffin’s friends distanced themselves, leaving her grappling with deep depression and addiction issues.
Despite facing numerous setbacks, including a diagnosis of stage 1 lung cancer in 2021, Griffin’s resilience shines through as she celebrates five years of sobriety. Following vocal cord surgery recommended by her friend Sia, Griffin found renewed hope and strength. However, the comedian faced another challenge with her divorce from husband Randy Bick, marking a difficult period in her life.
Looking ahead to her upcoming comedy tour titled “New Face, New Tour,” Griffin remains unapologetically herself, promising audiences an engaging and ever-evolving performance. With a candid approach to her material and a commitment to addressing a wide range of topics, Griffin’s tour is set to captivate audiences as she navigates the ups and downs of her life experiences with humour and honesty.
Throughout her tumultuous journey, Griffin acknowledges the shifting perceptions of the public towards her, with many recognising her resilience and ability to rise above challenges. Embracing the support and encouragement she receives, Griffin remains steadfast in her determination to continue sharing her unique perspective and making audiences laugh, despite the obstacles she has faced.
As Kathy Griffin prepares to embark on her comedy tour, she embodies a spirit of resilience and determination, proving that laughter can indeed be found in even the darkest of times. With her unwavering commitment to her craft and a willingness to share her experiences openly, Griffin’s story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and humour in overcoming life’s obstacles.