Jimmy Kimmel Returns to TV After Suspension—Here’s the Full Scoop

Jimmy Kimmel returns to the small screen tonight, and late night just got spicy again. After being off air for less than one month—because of his comments on Charlie Kirk’s assassination—Kimmel’s show is making a dramatic comeback on ABC. Fans, critics, and memes alike have been holding their breath to see how this comeback will roll out.

Late night has been in quiet mode without him. Shows went on, monologues happened, but something was missing. Kimmel has that edge. When he’s gone, you feel the silence creep in. This return is more than just resuming business. It’s a statement—that satirical voices still matter, even when they stir up the storm themselves.

The placement is iconic: the El Capitan Entertainment Centre in Los Angeles is the stage. The buzz is already building for his Tuesday night slot, part of the ABC lineup. People want to know: is he going to address what happened? Tone it down? Or double down? Late night television is about timing and tone—and after this suspension, all eyes are on how the Jimmy Kimmel return plays his cards.

What’s interesting is that this isn't a return after years off. It’s a return after weeks. That makes it raw. That makes it real. And in 2025, in this polarized media climate? That makes it dangerous—in all the best, worst ways. “Jimmy Kimmel's return” isn’t just about entertainment. It’s about what we accept, what we laugh at, and what powerful people try to shut down.

What Got Him Suspended? Let’s Break It Down

So, what kicked this whole thing off? ABC suspended Kimmel's show following criticism of his comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Yes, Kirk was murdered. Kimmel said that the “MAGA gang” was “desperately trying to characterise this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

He didn’t stop there. He played a clip of Donald Trump being asked how he was “holding up” two days after the shooting. Trump said he was “very good”, then pivoted to talk about preparations (new construction for a ballroom). Kimmel mocked that angle with a line comparing that behavior to a child mourning a goldfish. That bit? Fire.

Once that aired, backlash exploded. Media outlets, political commentators, conservative influencers said Kimmel had crossed a line. Brendan Carr from the Federal Communications Commission openly warned ABC and Disney about potential consequences. Some ABC affiliates pulled or threatened to pull the show, labeling the joke offensive and insensitive.

Within days, Kimmel's show was suspended shortly after the Chairman of the FCC publicly criticized his comments, suggesting potential consequences for ABC and its affiliates. Kimmel’s show was “pre‑empted indefinitely,” officially taken off air. Disney/ABC cited timing and context—saying the joke was inappropriate given the recent tragedy. Many saw it as ABC calculating political risk. Whether it was censorship, PR panic, or both, this moment reminded everyone how thin the line is when late night comedy meets real violence. Several media analysts noted that Kimmel's sudden suspension sent shock waves through the entertainment industry.

The Joke Heard ’Round MAGA: Why It Hit So Hard

Let’s unpack why this wasn’t just another controversial monologue. Because Charlie Kirk wasn’t just any pundit—he had become a symbol. A martyr in conservative media narratives after his death. His assassination hit hard, stirred grief, anger, and political theater. And in that climate, anything said about it would be picked apart.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr says Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks about Charlie Kirk’s killer was “some of the sickest conduct possible”

Kimmel’s exact words were — “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie… pic.twitter.com/3zigyRNUej

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) September 23, 2025

By accusing the MAGA gang of trying to “characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk” as one of them—when in fact the shooter was not part of that inner circle, according to reports—Kimmel was taking a big swing. He was arguing that some conservative forces were using Kirk’s death to fundraise, to rally, and to score political points. That bit resonated (and rattled) because it wasn’t just a joke. It sounded like accusation.

Dropping in the bit with Donald Trump—where he pointed out how Trump reacted, or didn’t “properly” react, in a time of personal crisis—added fuel. That comparison to childlike mourning? Brutal. But in the world of late night, brutal often gets attention. It’s satire. It’s harsh. But it also strikes ethical chords: what do we expect from leaders when tragedy hits? Kimmel was pushing into that territory and making people uncomfortable.

BREAKING 🚨 Owner of 31 ABC Stations, Sinclair Broadcast Group said they REFUSE to broadcast Jimmy Kimmel even after ABC brought him back

GOOD RIDDANCE pic.twitter.com/Vot50iGS1g

— MAGA Voice (@MAGAVoice) September 22, 2025

Then the politics swirl: the argument isn't just “did he go too far?” It’s “who gets to decide that?” Conservative media felt attacked. Some saw a pattern: whenever a popular liberal figure pushes hard, conservative gatekeepers scream censorship. So, whether you agree with Kimmel or not, the stakes felt bigger than comedy. It was about media power, narrative control, and whether tragedy gives license or responsibility. And that is why the joke hit so hard—and why his return is now being watched almost like a referendum on satire itself.

READ ALSO: Charlie Kirk Dead? Here’s What Actually Went Down

The Network Moves: ABC’s Messy Handling & Affiliate Fallout

So, ABC (and parent Disney) had to react. And react they did… poorly, if you ask me. Not fast enough for some, too harsh for others. After the backlash, ABC officially suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 17. They pulled the episode, citing sensitivity and timing. They didn’t outright apologize for Kimmel’s words, but called them “ill‑timed and insensitive.”

Then things got weird: major affiliate groups like Sinclair and Nexstar announced they would not air the return episode, even after Disney reinstated Kimmel. That means in many U.S. markets, Kimmel’s return won’t be seen live on ABC stations run by those groups. This move feels political. It feels like someone drew a line in the sand: “We’ll still reject this.” Maybe in protest, maybe in principle.

Also, ABC stations not owned by Sinclair/Nexstar seem to be going ahead with the returns. Streaming helps: viewers can catch Kimmel’s show via Hulu or Disney+ in many cases. Local stations airing or pre‑empting the show has become part of the story. The patchwork means in some cities people will see it; in others they won’t. And yes, that discrepancy feeds more talk about bias and censorship.

Disney’s decision to for Jimmy Kimmel to return after just six days also raised eyebrows. Some see that as bowing to pressure — from fans, from late-night peers, even from ad revenue losses. There are reports that Disney/ABC leadership met with Kimmel’s team over the weekend to negotiate conditions for his return. Sources say Kimmel will “say what he wants to say,” though whether there are behind‑the‑scenes restrictions is unclear. It’s messy. and political. It’s what media in 2025 does when big names, big tragedy, and big politics collide.

“Back from the Brink”: How His Show Was Announced to Return

The news that Jimmy Kimmel returns was officially confirmed by ABC/Disney on September 22, just six days after his suspension. Disney said they’d had “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel and that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would resume airing Tuesday night. The announcement came after a weekend of behind‑the‑scenes talks between Kimmel’s team and Disney executives.

The decision to reinstate the show was framed as measured. Disney acknowledged that Kimmel’s remarks had been “ill-timed and insensitive,” but also emphasized that the show would return. It seems the network was under pressure—ratings, backlash, public opinion all factoring in. The reinstatement wasn’t framed as a full vindication, but as a compromise.

When ABC made the call, many affiliate stations already had programming slots filled or had responded to pressure from local owners (more on that later). But the official return date, the network’s public stance, the setup for promos—all that was locked in. As of that announcement, fans and media outlets started prepping, speculation went wild, and controversies deepened. It was a comeback — but also the calm before the storm.

So yes, Kimmel’s return was announced in a controlled, semi‑apologetic tone by Disney and ABC, but with the clear message. Even though Trump criticized ABC for bringing back Kimmel, claiming he does poorly and is not funny, he’s coming back, and they’re ready—or forced—to ride the wave.

Kimmel’s Return: Guests, What’s Was Expected

Now for the juicy part: who’s coming back with him, and what we people expected see. Because Jimmy Kimmel returns without silence. The comeback episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! has a guest list that tells us a lot. Glen Powell is named as a returning guest. He’s promoting the Disney/Hulu‑linked show Chad Powers. And the musical guest set for that first episode: Sarah McLachlan, who reportedly pulled out of an ABC News event in solidarity with Kimmel during the controversy.

Other scheduled guests across the week include Ethan Hawke, Yungblud, Peyton Manning, Lisa Ann Walter, and Oscar Nuñez. So Kimmel is leaning into a mix—actors, music, crossover names. That suggests he’s going to try reclaiming his broad audience, not just preaching to the choir. The presence of Powell and McLachlan also suggests he might use the first monologue to address what happened—and likely defend the joke. People expected a few things:

Also, look out for how ABC handles promos. Will ABC stations owned by Sinclair/Nexstar refuse to air the promos? Will Kimmel’s contract shift? His creative freedom? These are non‑comedic expectations, but very much in view. And as a viewer, I’m ready for sparks. Whether you love him, hate him, or are just curious—this return episode might define where late night television is heading next.

READ ALSO: Jimmy Kimmel Show Canceled After Comments On Charlie Kirk

About Jimmy Kimmel's Comeback Monologue

BREAKING: Jimmy Kimmel just made clear how important it is that we live in a country with free speech. To try and silence people we disagree with is downright un-American. pic.twitter.com/Go0OdNHOis

— Democratic Wins Media (@DemocraticWins) September 24, 2025

Jimmy Kimmel’s return to Jimmy Kimmel Live! after his brief suspension was anything but a quiet apology tour. From the jump, he set the tone — serious, but laced with that signature Kimmel bite. He addressed the controversy surrounding his joke about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s murder, saying, “It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man.”

To be clear, Kimmel didn’t fully back down. He clarified that he wasn’t blaming any one group for Kirk’s death, despite previously quipping that “many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk.” That line alone probably had Fox News producers foaming at the mouth. Kimmel didn’t retract the joke — he just reframed it. Classic damage control, Hollywood-style.

What’s interesting is how he managed to walk the tightrope between contrition and defiance. On one hand, there was emotion — an almost rare vulnerability. On the other, there was that unmistakable edge. He didn’t grovel, and he certainly didn’t go full mea culpa. He knows his audience, and he knows controversy sells — especially when you serve it with a smirk.

Love him or loathe him, Kimmel returned exactly how you’d expect: unfiltered, a little defensive, and fully leaning into the storm. He didn’t just address the backlash — he spun it into a moment with some references and retort against recent political issues to add. And in late-night TV, that’s the real win.

Hollywood’s Divided: Late Night Hosts & Big Names React

In the wake of the suspension and comeback drama, late night hosts and Hollywood figures didn’t hold back. Stephen Colbert, longtime rival and fellow late night host, quietly voiced support—emphasizing that comics should have space to push boundaries. Others, like Jon Stewart, were louder: praising fans who threatened to “Cancel Hulu” over Disney’s handling, framing the whole thing as a fight for creative freedom.

Disney has lost nearly $4 billion in market value since suspending Jimmy Kimmel. pic.twitter.com/SiSMCIns5j

— No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen (@NoLieWithBTC) September 20, 2025

Celebrities across the board weighed in too. Over 400 entertainers reportedly signed an ACLU‑led letter demanding that Kimmel be reinstated and warning that this suspension threatened free speech in entertainment. Meanwhile, Tom Hanks, Jennifer Aniston, Meryl Streep—names that command media real estate—were part of the broader pressure. While not all spoke publicly, their presence in the support network amplified the weight of public sentiment.

Olivia Rodrigo speaks out against the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show:

“so upset over this blatant censorship and abuse of power. I stand with Jimmy Kimmel and I stand for freedom of speech.” pic.twitter.com/FzRLngxrpx

— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 20, 2025

Meanwhile, NBC News, NBC News Digital, and various outlets from Sinclair and Nexstar offered varying angles—some centering the controversy in politics, others in media censorship. The media industry is watching closely. For networks, this isn’t just about one show. It’s about precedent. If a monologue can get you suspended, what’s next? That question has late night’s biggest players paying attention.

Ariana Grande shows solidarity with Jimmy Kimmel through reposting SAG-AFTRA’s condemnation of his show’s suspension. pic.twitter.com/52YPmp86XB

— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 19, 2025

It’s worth noting that while voices on the left saw the suspension as dangerous overreach, conservative media saw daylight. Some praised the affiliates bowing out of airing him, framing it as accountability. Others saw it as censorship masquerading as principle. Hollywood’s splitting into camps—and Kimmel is very much the battleground line.

Free Speech, Power Plays & the Big Picture

This controversy is about more than one ill-timed joke. Kimmel's suspension spurred a national debate about free speech and the influence of the Trump administration over media. Jimmy Kimmel returns but in a landscape where networks, affiliates, regulators, and politicians all have skin in the game. At least five Hollywood unions publicly condemned ABC's decision to suspend Kimmel's show, labeling it corporate cowardice. Meanwhile, Brendan Carr, FCC Chair, didn’t shy away. He publicly warned of consequences for broadcasters airing provocative content. His involvement made many see this as regulatory pressure, or worse, a test of media power.

Then there’s the corporate side. Disney/ABC’s reinstatement came partly because of backlash—viewers threatening to cancel streaming subscriptions, advertisers pulling back, public pressure. The message is that even a giant feels heat when its customer base gets angry. And yet, affiliates like Sinclair and Nexstar didn’t budge—they refuse to air Kimmel’s show in many markets, saying his comments are still “ill-timed and insensitive.” This split underscores how fragmented media power is in 2025.

This also brings up the role of local stations vs national networks. Even if ABC wants Kimmel back, local owners hold power. If they refuse, your TV guide is suddenly empty in a key slot. Combine that with streaming options (Hulu, Disney+, etc.), and you get an era where access depends not only on content but on your platform and your local station owner.

At its core, this fight probes: when is satire fair game? When is tragedy off-limits? Who gets to decide that? Kimmel’s return is more than a media event. It’s a litmus test for where late night television, political commentary, and entertainment’s boundaries are headed. Buckle up, folks.

Final Word: Love Him Or Hate Him, Kimmel’s Not Done Yet

Alright, here's where I lean in and give you what you came for: my hot take. Jimmy Kimmel returns not just because ABC blinked, but because he still matters. In a media climate where big voices are constantly challenged, his brief suspension and comeback prove that controversy still sells—if you’re bold enough to ride it. He’s re-emerging not as a side act, but as a central piece in the late night chess game.

He may have stepped into the fire with his comments on Charlie Kirk’s death, but his comeback is also his chance to reframe things. Expect him to own the narrative—give context, joke, mock critics, and maybe even pull a few punches at political theater. He’s not likely to soften. He’s likely to sharpen. Because in comedy, especially in 2025, strength often lies in pushing boundaries. And if someone tries to shut you down? Come back louder. That’s Kimmel’s style.

The fact that many local ABC stations are refusing to air his return adds to the drama. He’s speaking to a split audience now: some see him as silenced, others as irresponsible. But one thing’s clear: the spectacle of his return is part of the story. The conversation around free speech, media influence, and political outrage isn’t going anywhere. Kimmel’s return isn’t a full reset. It’s a new chapter in a battle over what’s acceptable on TV.

So, whether you're tuning in, streaming, or reading recaps, this comeback matters. Because when kimmel’s show is part of national debate, it’s not just entertainment—it’s culture war theater, with punchlines. And love him or hate him… in this moment, Jimmy Kimmel is very much not done yet.

UP NEXT: Charlie Kirk Funeral: Everything From the Mourners to Trump’s Eulogy