"Jimmy Kimmel Live" Set to Resume Amid Controversy

Jimmy Kimmel

After a brief suspension, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" is making its return to ABC on Tuesday, according to Disney. The late-night talk show was halted for six days following remarks made by host Jimmy Kimmel regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at an event in Utah. Kimmel's comments suggested a political motive behind the framing of Kirk’s alleged killer, sparking a wave of criticism.

The suspension triggered a strong response from both political sides and consumer groups, with some Disney+ subscribers opting to cancel their memberships in protest. Prominent figures from both the Republican and Democratic parties voiced concerns over Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr's threats of regulatory action against ABC affiliates, which could include investigations or penalties.

Disney stated that the decision to temporarily pull the show was made to prevent further escalation during what they described as a volatile period. While the company recognized that Kimmel’s remarks were poorly timed, no formal apology was issued. Sources indicate that Disney's CEO Bob Iger and Co-Chair Dana Walden engaged in discussions with Kimmel prior to the decision to bring the show back.

Despite the announcement, not all ABC affiliates may immediately resume airing the program. Sinclair Broadcasting, a significant ABC affiliate group, has announced it will continue to preempt the show as it evaluates the situation with the network.

As "Jimmy Kimmel Live" returns to the air, Kimmel is expected to address the recent controversy during his upcoming monologue, potentially setting the stage for further discussions on the matter.