Jimmy Kimmel Oscar Monologue: Host Leaves Late-Night Beefs Behind To Honor Hollywood, Messi The Dog And Teamsters, Jabs Voters For Gerwig Snub

Jimmy Kimmel left his usual late-night beefs off the Oscar stage tonight, ignoring Trump, Santos, Aaron Rodgers to focus entirely on Hollywood’s big night, with only one not-so-veiled political jab included in a mostly gentle opening segment.

In a very brief pre-taped bit that had Kimmel telling Barbie that he hadn’t eaten in three weeks, the fourth-time Oscar host began his monologue by noting that the ABC broadcast – which started an hour earlier than usual – was already running five minutes behind schedule (true). Not to worry, he added, “We’ll still end very, very late.”

Kimmel also got in an early swipe at the classic Mattel doll that spawned this year’s blockbuster, saying that his wife, until Barbie, was less likely to offer their daughter a cigarette than the plastic, pre-feminist plaything.

Yet another Barbie-related jab came at the expense of Oscar voters: When Kimmel said many people believed Greta Gerwig deserved to be nominated in the Director category – which naturally drew audience applause – the host added, “I know you’re clapping but you’re the ones who didn’t vote for her.”

MORE TO COME…

Jimmy Kimmel is hosting the Oscars for the fourth time. The 96th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles kicks off on ABC at 7 pm ET/4 pm PT.