Update 9/24/2025:
NEW YORK – After about a week off air, Jimmy Kimmel Live! returned to ABC Tuesday night, following the network’s suspension over controversial comments made by the host about Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist’s assassination.
The suspension was the response after Kimmel’s monologue, on Sept. 15, in which he criticized the political party for exploiting Kirk’s killing. He said, in parts, that “many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk,” and he accuses “the MAGA gang” of “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than them.” The FCC Chairman, Brendan Carr, publicly condemned his comments by saying they “appeared to be making an intentional effort to mislead the public,” and gave warnings to ABC that Kimmel could face consequences.
When Kimmel returned on Tuesday, Sept. 23, he addressed the controversy head on in an emotional opening. He states, “It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man,” his voice begins to break, “I don’t think there’s anything funny about it.” Then adds, “Nor was it my intention to blame any specific group for the actions of what it was obviously a deeply disturbed individual. That was really the opposite of the point I was trying to make.” Kimmel acknowledges that some of his perceptions may have “felt ill-timed or unclear or maybe both,” in his words.
Kimmel also criticized stations that prevented his show, claiming, “That’s not legal. That’s not American. It’s unAmerican.” Drawing attention to what he called ‘growing pressure’ on media, then adding on about former president, Donald Trump, saying he “tried his best” to cancel him, only to rouse more of an audience.
More than 400 entertainers signed an open letter, in the name of the ACLU, warning that ABC’s suspension has threatened freedom of speech. This includes late night peers and celebrities who rallied in Kimmel’s defense during this time off air.
Despite ABC’s attempt to reinstate the show, many viewers will still be unable to watch. Sinclair states they would not resume airing Jimmy Kimmel Live! on its ABC stations, and Nexstar followed. Markets affected are Seattle, Portland, New Orleans, and Nashville and will follow alternatives, including in expanded news block and a syndication of content.
Now whether he can retain his broad reach into the broadcast industry, Kimmel’s return may not end the controversy. However, it marks the start of a new chapter for late night TV.
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Update 9/23/2025: Jimmy Kimmel is set to return to television following his suspension. ABC confirmed that the late-night host will resume his role, though no exact date has been announced. The network described the decision as a “measured resolution” after weeks of internal discussion. Kimmel, for his part, said he is “grateful for the support” and looks forward to returning to the air.
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After making inappropriate comments about the death of Charlie Kirk, TV show host Jimmy Kimmel has been indefinitely suspended from ABC News. In particular, Kimmel accused President Donald Trump of using Kirk’s death to push his MAGA movement and capitalize on the loss. Kimmel later argued that President Trump is not mourning Charlie Kirk like a lost friend, but rather mourning him as if he were a “little kid mourning a lost goldfish.” He also accused the president of fanning the flames of the incident.
Effect on Social Media
The statements sent social media into an uproar. Those who agree with Kimmel believe the suspension was unfair and unjust, while those who disagree feel his suspension was warranted and his comments were out of line.
President Trump’s Response
In response to the suspension, President Trump described it as “great news for America.” He also claimed that Kimmel’s late-night show was “ratings-challenged” and is now officially canceled. Trump continued his response by saying: “Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done.” He further threw shade at other late-night talk show hosts, such as Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers, calling them “two total losers.”
