An emotional Jimmy Kimmel returned to television on Tuesday night, addressing his brief suspension and clarifying that he never intended to mock the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The comedian, who had been taken off the air following his September 15 monologue, said his remarks were misunderstood and that he had no desire to blame any particular group for the tragedy. He also praised Erika Kirk for showing forgiveness toward her husband’s alleged killer, calling her response a deeply moving act of grace. Read More
Kimmel’s comeback episode was not aired in several major U.S. TV markets, as affiliates including Nexstar and Sinclair chose to replace his program with alternative content. The episode was, however, streamed on Disney’s Hulu + Live TV. FCC chair Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee, praised the affiliates’ decision and had earlier pushed for Kimmel’s suspension, even warning of potential action against Disney and ABC. Kimmel hit back, comparing Carr to a mob boss and criticizing former President Donald Trump, who has long been vocal about removing late-night hosts critical of him.
Trump himself blasted ABC for reinstating Kimmel just hours before the show aired, claiming the program had been cancelled and accusing the network of propping up a host who, in his words, lacked both audience and talent. Kimmel, however, continued with his signature humor, joking about Disney’s subscription service and hosting actor Glen Powell and singer Sarah McLachlan as guests.
The uproar began when Kimmel used his monologue to suggest Trump and his allies were attempting to spin Kirk’s murder for political gain, comparing Trump’s reaction to a child mourning a pet goldfish. His jokes triggered outrage from conservatives and drew criticism from Carr, who accused him of misleading the public. Amid mounting pressure, Disney and ABC initially suspended the show indefinitely, sparking backlash from lawmakers, unions, and free speech advocates.
Fellow late-night hosts Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart, and Seth Meyers rallied behind Kimmel, condemning the suspension as a threat to free expression. Disney later said it had “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel before reinstating him, though not all affiliates have followed suit. Nexstar and Sinclair, which collectively control more than 20% of ABC’s stations, announced they would continue to pre-empt his show until they were assured of a more “respectful and constructive dialogue.” Both companies are navigating regulatory scrutiny, with Nexstar in the midst of a multibillion-dollar deal that requires FCC approval.
Kimmel’s return underscores the ongoing tension between free speech, political pressure, and corporate decision-making in American television, leaving his future reach uncertain despite Disney’s decision to bring him back.
