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Jimmy Kimmel calls out 'anti-American' threats to free speech in tearful TV return

September 24, 2025

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has returned to ABC after a brief suspension following controversial comments about Charlie Kirk's murder, defending free speech while acknowledging his remarks may have seemed ill-timed or unclear. During his emotional comeback show, Kimmel criticized FCC head Brendan Carr for using "mob tactics to suppress free speech" and former President Trump for celebrating job losses in the entertainment industry. However, many ABC affiliates owned by Nexstar and Sinclair (representing about 20% of ABC's local stations) refused to air the comeback episode, continuing to replace his show with alternative programming.

Who is affected

  • Jimmy Kimmel and his late-night show staff
  • ABC and its parent company Disney
  • Viewers of ABC affiliates owned by Nexstar and Sinclair (approximately 20% of ABC's local stations)
  • Late-night hosts who supported Kimmel (Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart, Seth Meyers)
  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr
  • Former President Donald Trump
  • Charlie Kirk's family, particularly Erika Kirk who was mentioned

What action is being taken

  • ABC has reinstated Jimmy Kimmel's show after a brief suspension
  • Nexstar and Sinclair broadcasting companies are continuing to replace Kimmel's show with alternative programming
  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr is praising the decisions of local TV stations to not air Kimmel's show
  • Former President Trump is publicly criticizing ABC's decision to reinstate Kimmel
  • Celebrities and free speech advocates are supporting Kimmel's return

Why it matters

  • The situation represents a significant conflict over free speech in broadcast television
  • It highlights the regulatory power of the FCC over television content and the potential for political influence
  • The controversy demonstrates tensions between comedy, political commentary, and public sensitivity around tragic events
  • It reveals the complex relationship between national networks and their local affiliates, who can choose not to air certain content
  • The incident exposes broader political divisions in media, with both Republican and Democratic figures taking positions on the issue

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC