Kimmel’s Comeback? Disney in Secret Talks to Revive Late-Night Star’s Show Following His Controversial Charlie Kirk Comments

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.

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.”

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.”

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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!!!”