Jimmy Kimmel Live! Set to Return After Suspension
In a stunning turn after one of the most controversial weeks in late-night history, Jimmy Kimmel Live! will return to ABC on Tuesday, Disney has confirmed.
The show’s suspension came after Kimmel delivered a fiery monologue about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, sparking backlash from affiliate networks, political figures, and the public.
Now, following days of negotiations and behind-the-scenes wrangling, Disney says the show is back.
Disney’s Statement
In a statement sent to TMZ, the Walt Disney Company explained its decision to reinstate the show:
“Last Wednesday, we made the decision to suspend production on the show to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country. It is a decision we made because we felt some of the comments were ill-timed and thus insensitive. We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”
The Controversy That Sparked It All
The suspension followed Kimmel’s monologue, in which he addressed conservative attempts to politicize Kirk’s murder.
“Many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalise on the murder of Charlie Kirk,” Kimmel said.
He continued:
“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterise this kid ‘who murdered’ Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them, and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”
He accused Donald Trump and his allies of “doing their best to fan the flames following the assassination.”
Those comments drew sharp criticism from affiliates. Nexstar Communications Group, which operates 23 ABC stations, called them “offensive and insensitive.” Sinclair, the largest affiliate broadcaster, set new conditions for the show’s return.
Trump’s Reaction
Former president Donald Trump celebrated the suspension.
“Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done,” he said, before adding that he believes Kimmel has “zero talent.”
His remarks further inflamed an already volatile situation.
Hollywood Pushes Back
But many in Hollywood were outraged, accusing Disney and ABC of bowing to political pressure.
Actor Ben Stiller said bluntly: “This isn’t right.”
Jamie Lee Curtis added: “I don’t think anybody should be canceled. I really don’t.”
Others echoed the sentiment, warning that the suspension represented a dangerous precedent — one where political pressure could silence comedians and commentators.
What Happens Now?
While Disney has confirmed Kimmel’s return, questions remain.
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Will affiliate networks carry him? Some, like Sinclair, may hesitate.
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Will the backlash grow louder? Critics on the right are already preparing new attacks.
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Will Kimmel hold back? Or will he return to his desk with the same sharp tongue that landed him in hot water?
The answers will come Tuesday night, when America watches closely — not just to hear Kimmel’s jokes, but to see whether late-night comedy can truly survive political crossfire.
Final Word
Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension was never just about one monologue. It became a flashpoint in a larger debate: about free speech, censorship, and the growing influence of politics over entertainment.
Now, as Kimmel prepares to walk back into the studio, one thing is clear: his return won’t end the controversy. It will only fuel the next chapter.
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