Jimmy Kimmel Returns too ABC, Immediatly Criticizes Trump management’s Role in Suspension
NEW YORK – Jimmy Kimmel returned to Jimmy Kimmel Live on Monday following a brief suspension sparked by comments regarding teh shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, using his opening monologue to both express remorse adn directly criticize the political pressure that led to the show’s temporary removal from the air. The return follows a decision by Disney to reinstate the program, which has aired on ABC since January 2003, after initially suspending it “to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country.”
The controversy began after Kimmel made remarks about the reaction from the MAGA movement to the shooting of Charlie Kirk. Following these comments, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr publicly criticized Kimmel on a right-wing podcast and threatened to investigate ABC. Later, affiliates owned by Nexstar and Sinclair announced they would preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live. ABC then announced the show was pulled “indefinitely.”
Kimmel addressed Carr’s criticism directly, referencing Carr’s past stance on the importance of political satire. He also expressed regret over the initial comments. “It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man,” Kimmel said, his voice breaking. “I don’t think the murderer who shot Charlie Kirk represents anyone. This was a sick person who believed violence was a solution, and it isn’t, ever.”
He also praised Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow, for her act of forgiveness towards the shooter, stating, “I don’t know if you saw this-Erika Kirk forgave the man who shot her husband…That’s it. A selfless act of grace, forgiveness from a grieving widow. It touched me deeply.”
Despite Disney’s decision to bring the show back, Sinclair and Nexstar affiliates continued to preempt the program in select markets following the announcement. Disney stated it “spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy.”
