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Jimmy Kimmel is set to make his return to late-night television after a short-lived suspension that saw Jimmy Kimmel Live! temporarily pulled from the air. The decision came after the comedian made remarks about the death of political activist Charlie Kirk, sparking heated debate and criticism across the U.S.
ABC’s parent company, The Walt Disney Company, confirmed in a statement that the show will be back on air from Tuesday night, following what it described as “thoughtful conversations” with the long-running host.
“Last Wednesday, we made the decision to suspend production on the show to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country,” Disney said. “It is a decision we made because we felt some of the comments were ill-timed and thus insensitive. We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”
Kimmel, who has fronted his late-night talk show since 2003, is no stranger to pushing boundaries. Over the years, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has become known for its mix of biting political satire, celebrity interviews, and viral comedy sketches.
However, his remarks about Charlie Kirk, a controversial figure in American conservative politics, struck a nerve during a sensitive national moment, leading to calls for accountability. While some critics argued the suspension was necessary, others saw it as a worrying precedent for free expression in comedy.
For Disney, the decision was not without risk. On one hand, pausing the show acknowledged the sensitivity of the situation and allowed tensions to ease. On the other, sidelining one of ABC’s most recognisable faces, particularly during a competitive late-night ratings battle, raised eyebrows.
Industry insiders suggest the swift reinstatement shows that Disney ultimately sees Kimmel as too valuable to sideline long-term. His show consistently draws millions of viewers and remains a key platform for both entertainment and political commentary.
As he prepares to return, speculation is rife about how Kimmel will address the controversy. Traditionally, late-night hosts have turned such moments into monologues that balance humour with reflection, and many expect him to directly acknowledge the suspension on his first night back.
Whether audiences greet his return with applause or renewed scrutiny remains to be seen. What is clear is that Kimmel remains one of the most influential figures in American late-night television, a position that comes with both power and pressure.
The incident also raises broader questions about the role of comedy in political discourse, and whether there are moments when even seasoned satirists must pause and recalibrate. For now, though, fans of Jimmy Kimmel Live! can look forward to his trademark mix of wit and irreverence returning to their screens.
