Trump’s Threat to Sue Trevor Noah Over Grammy Joke

Over 15 million viewers tuned in to the 67th annual Grammy Awards on CBS, including former President Donald Trump, who is now considering legal action against host Trevor Noah due to a joke involving Jeffrey Epstein.

Noah remarked that this year’s Grammys marked his final hosting gig, comparing it to a presidential term. He stated, “I believe in term limits” and suggested that others should follow suit. In a humorous jab at Trump while introducing the Song of the Year award, Noah quipped about Trump’s desire for Greenland, linking it to Epstein’s former island.

Following the broadcast, Trump took to Truth Social, labeling the show “virtually unwatchable” and directing criticism at Noah, who he said was “almost as bad as Jimmy Kimmel.” Trump also contested Noah’s claim regarding his visits to Epstein’s island, despite being mentioned in Epstein’s documents. He intends to sue Noah, calling him a “total loser” and asserting he would seek significant damages.

This isn’t the first instance of Trump threatening comedians; he previously targeted Jimmy Kimmel after remarks Kimmel made related to another controversy. Trump claims he has won substantial settlements from various media outlets in the past over defamation issues, though such lawsuits often lack merit.

Legal experts suggest that Trump’s threats against Noah lack a foundation for a valid case. Georgetown professor David D. Cole and California litigator Tre Lovell agree that the humor in Noah’s monologue is not actionable as defamation. Both underline that jokes are generally protected speech, especially when made in a comedic context.

Lovell noted the importance of comedians being able to express themselves freely without the fear of frivolous lawsuits. Cole added that Trump’s behavior reflects a troubling trend of attempting to stifle criticism through intimidation, but he commended Noah for remaining unfazed by the threats.