Donald Trump has built a reputation on never backing down from critics, but according to comedian and impressionist Matt Friend, the former president still struggles with one simple thing: taking a joke.
Friend, who has made a career out of mimicking Trump’s voice and mannerisms on stage, revealed in a recent interview that while Trump can be witty in private settings, he quickly loses his sense of humour when the spotlight turns against him. Friend said other comedians, including Bill Maher, have remarked that Trump can be genuinely funny in person. Yet when late-night hosts or rivals poke fun at him, he lashes out publicly instead of laughing it off.
That dynamic has played out repeatedly in recent months. In July, Trump gloated over CBS’ decision to axe The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, one of his most vocal critics. Writing on Truth Social, Trump celebrated Colbert’s downfall and even took aim at Jimmy Kimmel, calling him less talented than Colbert. CBS’ announcement came only days after Colbert criticised a settlement involving Trump and Paramount Global, fuelling speculation that politics played a role.
Friend explained that Trump’s inability to let criticism go has only become more pronounced since leaving the White House. He recalled how Trump once thrived at Comedy Central’s roast format, even enjoying jabs from fellow entertainers. But now, Friend said, the former president bristles at being mocked and continues to treat satire as a personal attack.
RELATED
Despite Trump’s thin skin, comedians admit his unpredictable rants and outbursts have been a goldmine for their acts. Friend confessed that his best material often comes straight from Trump’s own words, saying he uses impressions to deliver lines he would never dare to say himself.
“Nothing will ever compare to the absurdity of having Trump in the culture,” Friend said. “The material writes itself.”
Whether Trump’s apparent humourless streak is a strategy or simply his nature, it continues to fuel both his critics and imitators. For comedians like Friend, his sensitivity may be frustrating, but it also ensures the punchlines will never run dry.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ