Jimmy Kimmel appeared upbeat Wednesday,September 18,2025,following a suspension from ABC’s Live! with Kelly and Mark. Protests erupted in New York City and Los Angeles, with demonstrators urging the network to reinstate Kimmel and voicing criticism of President Donald Trump.
The indefinite hiatus follows a pattern of late-night show disruptions, fueled by political tensions and public controversies. Trump previously celebrated the cancellation of Stephen Colbert‘s Late Show in July 2025 and warned Kimmel, along with Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers, could face similar fates. The situation highlights the increasing intersection of entertainment and politics, and raises questions about the future of late-night television in a highly polarized environment.
Demonstrators in both cities demanded ABC reverse its decision regarding Kimmel, together labeling President trump a “fascist.” The protests underscore the passionate response to recent developments in the late-night landscape and the broader political climate.
Trump publicly approved of Kimmel’s suspension, having previously “applauded the cancellation” of Colbert’s program. He signaled further action against other late-night hosts, including Fallon and meyers, suggesting a intentional strategy to influence media content.