Jimmy Kimmel's Emotional Return: Defending Free Speech Amidst Controversy

Tue Sep 30 2025 05:00:02 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a heartfelt comeback to late-night television, Jimmy Kimmel addresses free speech threats and reflects on recent controversies surrounding his comments on the murder of activist Charlie Kirk, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue.

Comedian Jimmy Kimmel returned to late-night TV with an emotional monologue condemning 'anti-American' threats to free speech following his suspension over remarks regarding the murder of Charlie Kirk. In his comeback episode, Kimmel expressed regret while criticizing political figures who threaten the integrity of comedy and freedom of expression.

Jimmy Kimmel has criticized anti-American threats to free speech during an emotional return to late-night US television - following a brief suspension after his comments about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Through tears, the comedian said during Tuesday's comeback show that it was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man.

Kimmel accused the head of the organization that regulates American TV of mob tactics, and poked fun at President Donald Trump's appearance at the UN, including an escalator mishap.

But Tuesday's episode was not available to viewers in all markets, due to opposition from some local stations affiliated with Kimmel's network ABC.

Those broadcasters, which are run by the companies Nexstar and Sinclair, reportedly account for about one in five of ABC's local stations in the US. Kimmel's broadcast was, however, available on streaming service Hulu + Live TV, which is owned by ABC's parent company Disney.

Trump, who had welcomed the comedian's suspension, was critical of the reinstatement, writing: I can't believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back.

Jimmy Kimmel Live! had been pulled after its host's statements about the shooting of Kirk caused uproar earlier this month.

Kirk was shot and killed while speaking at a university event in Utah on 10 September. Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with murder.

Speaking on Tuesday's programme, Kimmel insisted he had not wanted to blame any specific group for Kirk's murder. But I understand that to some that felt either ill-timed or unclear or maybe both, he said. And for those who think I did point a finger, I get why you're upset.

Kimmel also criticized political figures, including President Trump, for calling for the cancellation of his fellow late-night hosts, calling these actions un-American and dangerous.

This comeback was lauded by several celebrities and supported by colleagues across late-night television, reflecting broader concerns about the chilling effects of political backlash on creative expression.