‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ Returns, Host Addresses Suspension Amidst Political Fallout
Los Angeles, CA – Jimmy Kimmel Live! returned too ABC Monday night after a two-week suspension sparked by controversy surrounding host Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue about the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk‘s security guard. Kimmel directly addressed the situation during the show, acknowledging the pressure campaign that led to the brief hiatus.
The suspension followed accusations from FCC chairman Brendan Carr that Kimmel attempted to portray the shooter as motivated by right-wing extremism, specifically referencing the “MAGA gang.” Carr labeled Kimmel’s comments “sick.” Kimmel, however, clarified his remarks in the monologue, stating he observed efforts to “characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.” The incident ignited a broader debate about political influence over late-night programming and the role of the FCC.
The abrupt suspension raised concerns about potential censorship and the vulnerability of comedic commentary in a politically charged surroundings. While Disney ultimately reinstated the show, the fallout extended beyond ABC, with media companies sinclair and Nexstar announcing they would continue to preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! in their markets.Nexstar stated its stations would prioritize “local news and other programming relevant to their respective markets,” while Disney offers the series on its streaming platforms.
The creator of Family, whose show faced similar uncertainty regarding airtime and funding, expressed solidarity, stating, “I made the show as I believed in it … and than had to wait the weeks to find out if the show would ever be aired, would they ever pay for it, what was going to happen.” The situation underscores the ongoing tension between entertainment and political pressures,and the potential impact on creative freedom in television.
