Disney Resumes Jimmy Kimmel Live Amid Viewer Backlash Over Suspension

Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!", was temporarily suspended by ABC following controversial comments about the "MAGA gang" in response to conservative activist Charlie Kirk's death, sparking a significant backlash from viewers who threatened to cancel Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions. Disney later reversed its decision and announced the show's return after thoughtful discussions with Kimmel, citing the initial suspension as a move to avoid inflaming tensions during an emotional time. Jon Stewart, speaking on "The Daily Show," praised the audience's campaign—humorously noting their simultaneous binge-watching of Hulu content—as influential in bringing Kimmel back, while highlighting Disney's extensive presence in viewers' lives through various properties like ESPN, Avengers, and Winnie the Pooh. Stewart and other late-night hosts, including Stephen Colbert, celebrated the return and criticized President Donald Trump, who had applauded Kimmel's suspension and pushed for the cancellation of other late-night hosts. Stewart also pointed to the Trump administration’s alleged pressure on the FCC to remove shows critical of the president, suggesting Trump reflect on why so many television personalities criticize him. Overall, the incident highlighted tensions around free speech, political criticism, and corporate decisions within the entertainment industry.