Jimmy Kimmel Returns to TV Amidstar Celebrity Support and Affiliate Blackouts

Jimmy Kimmel made a triumphant return to late-night television shortly after being suspended for controversial remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. His comeback episode featured a comedic video bit with actor Robert De Niro impersonating FCC chairman Brendan Carr, delivering a tough, expletive-laden message mocking the current state of free speech under President Trump. Kimmel addressed his suspension directly, clarifying he never intended to mock the murder and criticized President Trump’s efforts against him, which instead boosted his show's viewership. The return was celebrated widely by stars including Ellen DeGeneres, Jennifer Aniston, Alyssa Milano, and others who praised Kimmel's professionalism and courage, with many hoping the reinstatement signals a move away from cancel culture towards open dialogue. However, some major ABC affiliates, like Sinclair Broadcasting Group, continued to refuse airing Kimmel's show, signaling ongoing tension within the network's distribution. Despite this, fans and celebrities alike predicted Kimmel's return would garner record ratings and reaffirm his status as a significant voice in American late-night television.