Jimmy Kimmel is making a return to late-night television on Tuesday after a near-weeklong suspension that sparked significant conversations about free speech and the extent of control exerted by officials, including former President Donald Trump, over media content. Kimmel’s show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on ABC, was put on hold following his controversial comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, prompting a debate about the boundaries of free expression.
ABC, following “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel, decided to lift the suspension. However, not all ABC affiliates plan to air the reinstated show. Sinclair Broadcast Group, which controls several ABC stations including those in Portland and Seattle, has decided to replace Kimmel’s show with news programming instead. Meanwhile, Nexstar Media Group’s position on airing the show remains unknown.
Kimmel had become a focal point of debate after commenting in a monologue that some Trump supporters were seeking to portray Charlie Kirk’s alleged murderer, Tyler Robinson, as something other than one of their own. This led to accusations from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr that Kimmel was misleading the public. Carr hinted that the FCC might take action if networks did not address such conduct.
In response to the suspension, considerable backlash ensued, with Republican Senator Ted Cruz criticizing Carr’s approach, while numerous celebrities and the American Civil Liberties Union decried ABC’s decision as detrimental to free speech. The controversy even led some Disney streaming service subscribers to cancel their memberships in protest.
Despite the temporary suspension, Kimmel’s return indicates ongoing support from Disney and ABC executives, who negotiated a pathway back to air. They acknowledged that some of Kimmel’s remarks might have been ill-timed but did not label them as deceptive.
Complicating the environment is an evolving late-night television landscape, with shows losing viewership as audiences opt to watch online clips the following day. Importantly, Kimmel’s contract with ABC extends until May, providing some continuity amid an uncertain media landscape.
As viewers anticipate Kimmel’s return, it remains unclear how he will navigate the recent controversy in his opening remarks. Millions are expected to tune in, signaling continued interest in late-night programming despite broader industry challenges.