Late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel has been appointed as the honorary mayor of Dildo, a local service district in Newfoundland. The decision comes following ABC’s announcement to cancel Kimmel’s show, which has caused a ripple effect in the small community where he holds the honorary title.
Todd Warren, the owner of George House Heritage Bed and Breakfast in Dildo, expressed the community’s warm welcome to Kimmel, emphasizing that they would gladly host him even without his television show. Kimmel’s interest in Dildo began in 2019 when he started featuring the town on his show and campaigned to become its unofficial mayor.
ABC’s decision to halt the airing of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” was in response to criticisms made by Kimmel, who accused conservative activist Charlie Kirk of political manipulation and mocked President Donald Trump’s handling of the situation. Despite the controversy, Warren and Lynette Reid, who owns The Treasure Trove in South Dildo, both extended invitations to Kimmel to visit the community, which he has yet to do since putting Dildo in the international spotlight.
The community of Dildo, lacking a mayor or town council, garnered significant attention after Kimmel’s campaign to become its unofficial mayor in 2019. His show’s coverage of Dildo has greatly benefited local businesses, attracting tourists and boosting the town’s economy.
Both Warren and Reid highlighted the positive impact of Kimmel’s spotlight on Dildo, with Reid recalling the influx of visitors during Guillermo Rodriguez’s campaign visit on Kimmel’s behalf. The increased tourism and exposure have been invaluable for the community, leading to the growth of new businesses and a surge in visitor numbers, particularly from the United States.
The enduring appeal of Dildo, propelled by Kimmel’s attention, has significantly contributed to its tourism industry, with Warren estimating the economic value of Kimmel’s influence to be worth millions. The community remains open and eager to welcome Kimmel, recognizing the ongoing benefits of his involvement in putting Dildo on the map.