“Jimmy Kimmel Live” is the most inconsistent show in late night - which is what makes it such addictive viewing. No program takes more chances or is more willing to risk dead silence from the audience. That kind of approach can lead to some dull nights, but when it connects, it’s a powerhouse punch.

The latest example of a one-two knockout is red-hot in youtube land: Sarah Silverman’s “I’m F&$*(% Matt Damon” and Jimmy’s response, “I’m F&^%( Ben Affleck.” The Affleck video is the more star-studded of the two, with appearances by Harrison Ford, Christina Applegate, Meat Loaf, Brad Pitt, Josh Groban, Cameron Diaz, Huey Lewis and others, but I prefer the “Damon” bit, if only because Damon is a better comedic actor than Affleck. He’s not just doing a bit; he’s giving a full-out performance - and it’s five times better than “Stuck On You.” (Come to think of it, “The Bourne” movies are more side-splitting than “Stuck On You.”)

In addition to being a risktaker, Kimmel almost always goes out of his way to respond to phone calls and e-mails (It’s beyond comprehension why a guy with a girlfriend like Silverman and a boyfriend liek Affleck, would take time to be on the computer, but there it is). I sent Kimmel a congralutary note with a few questions for which he replied promptly. Here’s the short exchange:

Me: Jimmy, Happy “No More Strike” greetings. Seen the Matt Damon/Ben Affleck videos about 20 times each. Great stuff, although I can’t figure out why you’re “flossing” Ben Affleck. Has he become that big a star?

Him: It has nothing to do with celebrity. It has to do with the intense attraction between two men.

Me: Who should be credited with writing and directing these videos?

Him: Wayne McClammy is the director. It was written by a bunch of us.

Me: What kind of response have you gotten from fans and people in the industry?

Him: Suffice it to say, I got a congratulatory call from Larry King.

Me: How in God’s green earth did you get Harrison Ford to play along?

Him: Apparently, he has an excellent sense of humor.

This entry was posted on Friday, February 29th, 2008 at 12:32 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.