Jimmy Kimmel returned to television after a week-long suspension, and his reappearance was anything but subtle. Greeted with overwhelming applause and a near standing ovation, the late-night host stepped onto the stage of “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and delivered a heartfelt and pointed 20-minute monologue that quickly went viral.
His return comes in the wake of controversy following remarks he made surrounding the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and prominent supporter of Donald Trump. Kirk was gunned down while speaking at Utah Valley University—a moment that sent shockwaves across political and media landscapes. Kimmel’s earlier commentary, which many on the right perceived as dismissive or politicized, had triggered backlash that led to his temporary removal from the air by ABC.
Visibly emotional and holding back tears, Kimmel clarified his intentions. “It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man,” he said earnestly. “Nor was it my intention to blame any specific group for the actions of what was obviously a deeply disturbed individual.” The comedian praised Kirk’s widow, Erica, for her public act of forgiveness, calling it “extraordinary” and adding, “I hope it can be that.”
However, Kimmel didn’t stop at contrition. He directly criticized ABC affiliates for taking his show off the air, calling the move “un-American.” He was unapologetic in his critique of Donald Trump, who had called for Kimmel’s show to be canceled permanently. “He tried his best to cancel me, and instead he forced millions of people to watch this show,” Kimmel said, noting that the attempt to silence a comedian from the highest office in the land sets a chilling precedent. “A government threat to silence a comedian the President doesn’t like is anti-American,” he added.
Kimmel also mocked Trump’s reaction on social media, where the former President called ABC a “true bunch of losers” and jeered at Kimmel’s ratings. “The President of the United States made it very clear he wants to see me and the hundreds of people who work here fired from our jobs,” Kimmel said, his voice firm but emotional.
The suspension sparked its own controversy, with public outcry coming not just from Hollywood and the media, but also from political figures—including Republican Senator Ted Cruz—who questioned the network’s decision. Ultimately, the backlash pressured ABC to reinstate Kimmel, leading to his dramatic return.
Kimmel closed his monologue with a reflection on comedy, politics, and humanity. It was an unusually raw, emotional moment for late-night television—and a reminder of the power of free speech, even in the most polarized times.
