Ethan Hawke Interrupts Jimmy Kimmel Monologue Amid Show Suspension Controversy

Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show was temporarily suspended after he criticized Donald Trump's response to Charlie Kirk's death, sparking backlash including from FCC chairman Brendan Carr and leading to ABC affiliates Nexstar and Sinclair dropping the show. In response, over 400 entertainers signed an American Civil Liberties Union letter supporting Kimmel and condemning the suspension, prompting ABC to reinstate the show, although some affiliates maintain the ban. In a notable moment on the reinstated show, actor Ethan Hawke humorously interrupted Kimmel's monologue, pretending to have signed the ACLU letter when he had not, creating a viral moment that highlighted the ongoing support and controversy. Kimmel expressed gratitude for the signatories, which include prominent figures like Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep, and Tom Hanks, while Hawke joked about not signing because he believed Kimmel was "done." The incident reflects the broader tensions involving free speech, media censorship, and political reactions under President Donald Trump's administration. Despite the controversy, Jimmy Kimmel Live! has seen a surge in ratings following its return to air.