Jimmy Kimmel could face a mutiny from his crew if he does not speak out against Disney for suspending his show, insiders have told the Daily Mail. Staff expect the late-night host to 'come out swinging' when he returns to air on Tuesday night.
The 57-year-old's show was put on hiatus after he made comments about the assassination of conservative leader Charlie Kirk. Disney announced on Monday that the show would return after days of talks with Kimmel, sparking speculation about how he would address the scandal.
A source told the Daily Mail that the content of Kimmel's opening monologue is being kept secret, and it is unclear whether he will apologise or criticise Disney and ABC's decision. 'We won't know what he's going to say to address it, they're going to keep that secret, but I can tell you he's not going to roll over and just take it,' the insider said. 'The last week has made his balls bigger, not smaller. I expect him to come out swinging.'
The source warned of consequences if Kimmel does not defend himself: 'We are depending on him to stand up for what's right. If he doesn't, there will be a mutiny.' Another insider said Kimmel is returning for his staff, to ensure they do not miss pay or work. 'As much as he wanted to leave ABC, he is happy that the people he works with will have some time to figure out their next steps,' the source added.
Kimmel's controversial comments came last Monday when he said 'the MAGA gang' was trying to portray the suspect in Kirk's assassination 'as anything other than one of them'. The remarks sparked outrage and a warning from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. More than a dozen ABC affiliates refused to air the show until the remarks were addressed, leading Disney to pull the show 'indefinitely'.
Disney's statement on Monday said the suspension was to 'avoid further inflaming a tense situation' and that after 'thoughtful conversations' with Kimmel, they decided to return the show on Tuesday. Kimmel is expected to give a glimpse of his plans for the future during his return episode.
