In 2019, Jimmy Kimmel became a prominent figure in the small community of Dildo, Newfoundland and Labrador, captivated by its amusing name. His frequent mentions of the town on his late-night television show led to him being made the honorary mayor and stirred local excitement. Dildo, which consists of roughly 800 residents and is located 60 kilometers west of St. John's, has since benefitted from an influx of tourism due to Kimmel's comedic attention.
Following the recent indefinite suspension of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" by ABC due to the host's controversial comments regarding the assassination of Conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, the residents of Dildo have come forward to express their support for Kimmel. Andrew Pretty, a former committee member for the town's service district, warmly invited Kimmel to visit Dildo, remarking on the community’s beauty and welcoming atmosphere.
Pretty affirmed Kimmel’s right to express his views, stating, "You can’t have free speech just one way. It’s got to go both ways, no matter what side of the issue you’re on." His comments reflect the community’s understanding of Kimmel’s comedy and its positive impact on Dildo, turning what might have been an awkward joke into a source of pride.
ABC suspended Kimmel's show following his remarks that implied many within Donald Trump’s political movement were attempting to exploit Kirk's murder. On the show, Kimmel had addressed this sensitive topic multiple times, stirring controversies that ultimately led to the decision by the network.
The publicity stemming from Kimmel’s bits about Dildo has delivered lasting benefits for the community's tourism. In 2019, Kimmel's team filmed segments that highlighted the town, featuring its intriguing name and charming landscapes. The host even funded the installation of a Hollywood-style sign bearing the town's name, which has become a local attraction.
Dildo operates without a formal mayor or town council, making Kimmel's honorary title a unique gesture of gratitude for the exposure he provided. Pretty noted that while Kimmel was likely poking gentle fun at the town's name, the experience was ultimately uplifting, adding a layer of respect and recognition to Dildo's identity.
Local business owners like Todd Warren, who runs the George House Heritage B&B, described the show's suspension as "unfortunate." Warren expressed that discussions about speech and censorship resonate deeply in Dildo, especially given the history of the town facing pressure regarding its name. He believes that Kimmel’s spotlight helped shift perceptions about the town, encouraging a more respectful view of its identity.
Karine McDonald and Dean Reid, who were featured in Kimmel’s segments and now co-own Kimmel Cottage—a rental property adorned with memorabilia from Kimmel's crew—echoed sentiments of disappointment regarding the show’s suspension. McDonald viewed the situation as excessive, arguing that Kimmel "doesn’t deserve it." Reid humorously offered Kimmel the oppurtunity to stay at Kimmel Cottage, joking that he might charge double for a celebrity guest.
Amid the uncertainty surrounding Kimmel's career, the residents of Dildo find optimism in the potential for Kimmel to finally visit their picturesque fishing village known for its rich history. Pretty concluded with an invitation: "If he wants a break from the U.S., he can certainly come to Dildo," highlighting the community's deep-rooted appreciation for the late-night host.
