n a shocking (but not entirely surprising) move, Jimmy Kimmel sent a short but powerful message to Eloï Musk, marking the official end of his popular late-night talk show on February 28.

In a surprising turn of events, Jimmy Kimmel said goodbye to late-night television with a final message that shocked viewers and critics alike. When his long-running show finally came to an end on February 28, Kimmel took the opportunity to address none other than billionaire tech mogul Elon Musk with an eight-word statement that instantly went viral.

Kimmel, known for his sharp wit and outspoken political commentary, has often clashed with Musk over the years. The late-night host has used his platform to criticize the Tesla and SpaceX CEO’s social media behavior, controversial business decisions, and political views. As the curtains closed on his show, Kimmel made sure to leave a lasting impression.

While Kimmel’s final show was filled with emotional farewells and tributes to celebrity guests, his message to Musk dominated the headlines. With a piercing look into the camera, he uttered his now-famous parting words: “You never deserved this attention, but congratulations.” The statement was both a critique of Musk’s media ubiquity and a sarcastic reference to the billionaire’s influence on modern discourse. Almost immediately, social media exploded with reactions, with fans and critics alike parsing the meaning of Kimmel’s words.

Elon Musk, known for responding to criticism on X (formerly Twitter) with humor or defiance, didn’t stay silent for long. Within hours, he responded with a cryptic but distinctive tweet: “I’m going to miss your jokes, oh wait, no I won’t.” The response sparked another heated debate, with supporters and naysayers on both sides of the aisle voicing their opinions.

Kimmel’s departure from late-night television marks the end of an era. For two decades, he has been a mainstay of the entertainment industry, mixing comedy with sharp political and social commentary. However, his take on Musk has been particularly controversial. While some see Kimmel as a courageous voice against powerful figures, others accuse him of using his platform to wage personal feuds. Regardless of perspective, his final words have ensured that his influence has been felt long after the cameras have turned off.

Throughout his career, Kimmel has never shied away from controversy, tackling topics ranging from political corruption to corporate irresponsibility. His ongoing feud with Musk is one of the most talked-about rivalries, dating back to Musk’s acquisition of Twitter. Kimmel has often criticized Musk’s stewardship of the platform, from mass layoffs to policy changes that many have deemed unfair. Musk, in turn, has often dismissed Kimmel’s criticisms as the chatter of an out-of-touch Hollywood elite.

Now that Kimmel has stepped away from the spotlight, the question is who will take over the mantle of late night’s most outspoken critic. Some speculate that other hosts like Stephen Colbert or John Oliver could continue the tradition, while others believe the changing media landscape will lead to new voices unafraid to challenge the likes of Musk. Either way, Kimmel’s legacy as one of the most influential late-night hosts of his generation is solidified.

Meanwhile, Musk continues to expand his empire, juggling projects in artificial intelligence, space exploration, and electric vehicles. Despite frequent public criticism, his companies remain dominant forces in their respective industries. Some believe that without Kimmel’s constant criticism, Musk will face fewer high-profile challenges in mainstream entertainment media, allowing him to further shape public perception on his own terms.

As the entertainment world adjusts to Kimmel’s absence, his final words to Musk remain a defining moment in his departure. Whether seen as a mean-spirited put-down or a bold statement against unchecked influence, the message has undoubtedly sparked a wide-ranging debate. And in an age where media, technology, and entertainment are more intertwined than ever, the impact of these words will likely linger long after Kimmel’s final speech.