Jimmy Kimmel Live! made a highly anticipated return to ABC on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, following a six-day suspension. The temporary pause came after host Jimmy Kimmel made remarks regarding the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which sparked widespread public debate.
ABC reinstated the show after internal discussions, stating that they had “carefully reviewed the circumstances” and were confident the program could resume. Kimmel’s return drew approximately 6.3 million viewers, marking one of the most-watched episodes in the show’s history. Online engagement was also significant, with clips of Kimmel’s monologue surpassing 22 million views across YouTube and social media platforms.
However, the comeback was not without complications. ABC affiliates owned by Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, which collectively serve nearly a quarter of U.S. households, initially chose to pre-empt the broadcast due to concerns over Kimmel’s comments. The affiliates have since agreed to resume airing the program.
The suspension and subsequent return sparked national discussion about free speech, media responsibility, and political commentary in late-night television. Industry analysts note that the incident underscores the challenges faced by hosts in balancing humor, current events, and audience expectations in today’s highly polarized media landscape.
Despite the controversy, Jimmy Kimmel Live! continues its run, with ABC emphasizing its commitment to providing both entertainment and thoughtful commentary, while navigating the evolving landscape of late-night television.
