Jimmy Kimmel Returns to ABC as Disney Ends Suspension
Jimmy Kimmel is officially back. After an abrupt suspension sparked by what some considered to be controversial comments, ABC and Disney confirmed his return on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. This was followed by Sinclair and Nexstar ending their preemptions, restoring Jimmy Kimmel Live! to full broadcast across the country.
The Suspension: What Happened & Why It Mattered
On September 17, 2025, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely after comments Kimmel made in a monologue about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk generated controversy and backlash.
Station owners Sinclair and Nexstar, controlling many ABC affiliate markets, immediately preempted the show, effectively cutting off access in about a quarter of U.S. households.
Critics framed the suspension as raising serious First Amendment concerns, citing fears that political pressure or regulatory threats were influencing editorial freedom.
Toward Reinstatement: What Led to His Return
After several days of internal deliberations, Disney and ABC announced that the show would return on Tuesday, September 23, just six days after it was pulled.
Kimmel’s emotional return included a heartfelt monologue in which he clarified his intentions, stating that he had no desire to make light of a tragedy.
However, even at that time, Sinclair and Nexstar affirmed they would continue preemptions, arguing they desired “formal discussions” with ABC and assurances about accountability.
The Final Hurdle: Sinclair & Nexstar Rejoin the Broadcast
In a later reversal, Sinclair and Nexstar both announced they would restore Jimmy Kimmel Live! on their ABC affiliates, ending the boycott that had cut coverage in many key markets.
That development marks Kimmel’s full return to national late-night TV, no longer limited by local station decisions.
Reactions, Ratings & Industry Fallout
Record viewership: His comeback drew ~6.26 million viewers, about four times higher than typical ratings.
Investor pressure: Some Disney shareholders demanded internal documents about the suspension, citing potential mismanagement or influence by political concerns.
Free speech debate: Many media voices, unions, and civil liberties groups condemned the suspension as undue censorship, calling for greater protections for creative expression.
Affiliate relations tested: Disney’s decision to reinstate Kimmel put pressure on station groups like Sinclair and Nexstar, ultimately requiring reconciliation to preserve network cohesion.
Why This Return Matters
Creative vs. corporate dynamics: The saga highlights how media companies often balance creative freedom against pressures from advertisers, investors, and regulators.
Broadcast reach remains vital: Even in an era of streaming, preemptions by major station groups can limit access and weaken impact.
Public sentiment can drive decisions: Viewer backlash, social media reactions, and industry solidarity played a crucial role in reversing the blackout.
Precedent for media controversies: The case establishes a benchmark for how networks respond when content crosses politically sensitive lines.
Looking Ahead: What Could Come Next
Looking ahead, Disney’s decision to reinstate Jimmy Kimmel raises key questions for ABC and late-night TV. Will Kimmel face new editorial guidelines, or could affiliates once again push back if political controversies arise? The suspension and return highlight the growing influence of investors and corporate partners in shaping programming, while also underscoring the challenge of balancing free expression with shareholder accountability. Kimmel’s comeback sets an important precedent for how Disney manages future media controversies in a polarized entertainment landscape.
