Disney and ABC have reinstated Jimmy Kimmel to late-night TV after a six-day suspension over controversial remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. The return has sparked widespread reactions from fans, celebrities, and media outlets, highlighting debates on free speech and political commentary.
Disney and ABC have announced that Jimmy Kimmel will return to late-night television after being suspended earlier this month over controversial remarks. The suspension, which lasted just six days, had sparked widespread debate across the entertainment industry, fans, and media regulators.
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Kimmel’s suspension came following comments he made during his September 15 monologue on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. He criticized the political exploitation of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination and suggested that the alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, might have political leanings associated with former President Donald Trump.
These comments drew swift backlash from conservative groups and media affiliates. The Sinclair Broadcast Group, which owns a large number of ABC affiliate stations, announced it would not air the show upon Kimmel’s return, opting instead for alternative programming.
Additionally, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr criticized ABC, threatening regulatory scrutiny, which escalated the conversation to a national debate on media accountability, free speech, and censorship.
While conservative voices were critical, the entertainment community rallied behind Kimmel. Over 400 industry figures, including stars such as Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, signed an open letter defending the host’s right to free expression. Fans around the globe took to social media to show their support, turning the suspension into a trending topic.
ABC described Kimmel’s suspension as a response to “ill-timed and insensitive” remarks. Following thoughtful discussions with Kimmel, the network decided to reinstate the late-night show, allowing it to resume broadcast from Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
While Disney and ABC did not issue a formal apology, discussions with affiliates such as Nexstar and Sinclair regarding rebroadcasts are ongoing. Kimmel is expected to address the controversy during his first show back, though it is unclear whether he will offer a formal apology.
Kimmel’s return highlights the delicate balance networks face between editorial content, audience expectations, and regulatory oversight. The incident has sparked wider discussions about free speech in entertainment and the role of political commentary in late-night programming.
As the show returns to air, it remains one of the most talked-about stories in television, capturing global attention and reinforcing Jimmy Kimmel’s position as a leading figure in late-night entertainment.
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