‘Jimmy Kimmel live!’ returns to ABC Following Brief Suspension
Los Angeles, CA - Jimmy Kimmel Live! resumed airing new episodes on September 23, after a week-long hiatus prompted by a controversial segment and subsequent backlash. The show’s return follows a statement from The Walt Disney Company acknowledging the decision to temporarily suspend production “to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country.”
The unexpected removal of Jimmy Kimmel Live! from the airwaves sparked widespread debate about the boundaries of late-night comedy and the impact of political satire. The suspension directly affected the show’s staff, viewers, and ABC’s late-night programming schedule, raising questions about the future of the programme.Kimmel’s return signals a resolution to the immediate crisis, but the incident underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by late-night hosts navigating a polarized media landscape.
Kimmel addressed the situation during his return episode, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support he received. “I’ve heard from a lot of people over the last six days… everyone I have ever known has reached out 10 or 11 times,” he said. He further acknowledged the impact of viewer response, stating, “You supported our show and cared enough to do something about it to make your voices heard so that mine could be heard, and I will never forget it.”
During an appearance on The Late Show Starring Stephen colbert days later, Kimmel admitted to initially fearing the show’s permanent cancellation. “I was like, ‘This is never coming back on the air,'” he recalled.
Jimmy Kimmel Live! currently airs weekdays on ABC at 11:35 p.m.ET.
