Jimmy Kimmel returned to air on Tuesday night, delivering a monologue that condemned government efforts to silence comedians as 'anti-American'. His return came after Disney suspended his late-night show under pressure from Trump officials over remarks he made about the shooting of rightwing activist Charlie Kirk.
Kimmel thanked supporters and acknowledged that his suspension had sparked a national debate on free speech. He emphasized that while the show itself was not important, living in a country that allows such a programme was. He also expressed regret if his comments were perceived as blaming any specific group, clarifying that the shooter was a disturbed individual.
The host criticised President Trump, who had called for him to be fired, and praised Erika Kirk, the victim's widow, for forgiving her husband's killer. Kimmel noted that her example should be followed.
The dispute began when Trump-appointed FCC chair Brendan Carr threatened ABC's affiliate licenses unless Disney took action. Broadcast groups Nexstar and Sinclair refused to air the programme, leading to Kimmel's suspension. The move prompted backlash from Hollywood and free speech advocates, leading Disney to reverse its decision.
