Jimmy Kimmel Live! Returning Sept. 23; Stations Preempt

ABC reinstated Jimmy Kimmel after suspending Jimmy Kimmel Live! over a monologue about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, saying the host will return on Sept. 23 following “thoughtful conversations” with Disney/ABC. The suspension came amid pressure from the Trump administration and threats by major station groups, including Nexstar and Sinclair, and prompted a national debate about censorship and broadcast independence. Nexstar and Sinclair said they will continue to preempt the program in many local markets, though Disney said the show will remain available on its streaming platforms. Hollywood stars, late‑night peers and free‑speech advocates rallied to Kimmel’s defense, and commentators including Joe Rogan weighed in. Some outlets also reported a security incident at an ABC affiliate during the controversy.