Sunday was a big night for ABC’s Abbott Elementary, taking home two Primetime Emmy Awards, including one for Quinta Brunson, winning Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series. But it was that moment that caused a bit of backlash…at Jimmy Kimmel.
Both Will Arnett and Jimmy Kimmel presented the award–sort of. Kimmel’s schtick involved him being dragged by his feet to the mic, having passed out from too many skinny margaritas after sulking over his eighth consecutive Outstanding Variety Series loss.
When Quinta Brunson accepted the Emmy–her first ever–she had to step around him and was forced to give her entire speech while he laid there like a drunk. While only seen in wide shots on television, Jimmy Kimmel’s presence was surely felt more prominently inside the Microsoft Theater. You can watch the full clip, including the skit and acceptance speech, at the end of the article.
This sparked outrage online, with many saying Jimmy Kimmel took a moment from Quinta Brunson. Some tweets called Kimmel “unfunny,” “rude,” and “selfish.” Brunson had her own thoughts but didn’t quit, indict, or champion Kimmel.
“I know Jimmy Kimmel, and I don’t know, I feel like the bit didn’t bother me that much. I don’t know what the internet thinks.” She also said she was “wrapped up in the moment…Maybe tomorrow I’ll be mad at him.”
Brunson will actually appear on Kimmel’s Emmy-losing show later this week. Brunson lightheartedly said, “Maybe I’ll punch him. I don’t know. We’ll see what happens.”
Quinta Brunson said she has respect for Jimmy Kimmel, noting he played a huge role in getting Abbott Elementary on the air.
Abbott Elementary won two Primetime Emmy Awards on Sunday out of six nominations. It has already been renewed for a second season.
What do you think? Did Jimmy Kimmel’s bit go too far and steal Quinta Brunson’s spotlight at the Primetime Emmy Awards?