September 21, 2025, Published 2:15 p.m. ET
Add Radar on Google
Jimmy Kimmel’s future in late-night television is shrouded in uncertainty as Disney, the parent company of ABC, is reportedly engaged in negotiations concerning the potential return of Jimmy Kimmel Live!. This comes after the show faced indefinite suspension due to backlash stemming from remarks made by its host regarding conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The controversy ignited when Kimmel delivered a heated monologue on September 15, prompting reactions from major broadcasters and regulatory entities.
Article continues below advertisement
Negotiations Underway
The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show has sparked a discourse on free speech amidst pressure from various media and political factions.
Sources have indicated that internal discussions are happening to find a way for Kimmel’s return. However, Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates many ABC affiliates, has reportedly insisted that Kimmel apologize and contribute funds to Turning Point USA, an organization associated with Kirk.
Nexstar, another significant broadcasting entity, has added to this pressure, declaring it would pull Kimmel’s show following comments made by Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr.
“We can approach this issue easily or face challenges ahead,” said Carr during a podcast after Kimmel’s vibrant comments. “It’s up to the companies to determine how they want to address Kimmel’s situation or face further action from the FCC.”
Article continues below advertisement
State of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Sinclair Broadcast Group’s demands include an apology and a donation to Turning Point USA from Kimmel.
Following the controversy, Disney announced the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, a decision that triggered extensive discussions regarding freedom of expression. While Kimmel has remained silent on the matter, insiders suggest it remains unclear whether he will acquiesce to Sinclair’s demands or maintain his stance.
The situation has placed Kimmel’s approximately 200-member production staff in a precarious position. Reports suggest employees will be compensated through the next week, though their ongoing employment remains in question. One Disney insider has expressed hope for a swift resolution: “Everyone values Jimmy and wants him back. But he needs to temper his approach.”
Complicating matters are concerns that Disney could encounter serious repercussions, including the potential loss of broadcast licenses, if the situation remains unresolved.
An additional layer of complexity surrounds Kimmel’s preparation for another sharply-worded monologue targeting Fox News and MAGA supporters. Executives at ABC and Disney have urged him to tone down these remarks, which he has reportedly resisted, contributing to the current suspension.
Article continues below advertisement
Kimmel’s Controversial Comments
Kimmel criticized MAGA supporters and commented on Donald Trump’s reaction to Kirk’s assassination.
The uproar began when Kimmel opened his show with commentary addressing Kirk’s assassination, framing it within the ensuing political discourse. “The MAGA group is scrambling to redefine this individual who committed the murder as anything but connected to them, while using the tragedy for political gain,” Kimmel articulated. “Amid the blame, there exists genuine sorrow.”
Kimmel further criticized former President Donald Trump’s response when questioned about Kirk’s death. After Trump remarked, “I think very good,” while gesturing toward renovations in the White House ballroom, Kimmel quipped: “He’s in the fourth stage of grief: construction. This is not how an adult mourns a friend’s murder. It’s the reaction of a toddler grieving the loss of a pet goldfish.”
READ MORE ON Celebrity
Reactions from Trump and Others
Never Miss an Update
Subscribe for daily updates straight from Hollywood to your inbox. By sign-up, you consent to receiving customized marketing messages from us and our partners, along with agreeing to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Negotiations are ongoing to find a solution that could see Kimmel return to television.
Just days after Kimmel’s controversial statements, Carr issued a stern warning, leading to Disney’s suspension of the late-night show.
Hollywood peers and Kimmel’s late-night colleagues — including Stephen Colbert, Jon Stewart, Jimmy Fallon, and Seth Meyers — have voiced their support for him.
Conversely, conservative commentators have welcomed the suspension. Former President Trump took to Truth Social to state: “Kimmel possesses zero talent, with ratings lower than even Colbert, if you can believe that. This leaves only Jimmy and Seth, both of whom have also plummeted in ratings. Do it, NBC!!!”
This restructured article preserves the original content’s format and keys points while ensuring the text is unique and flows smoothly for a WordPress platform.
