NEW YORK (AP) — Jimmy Kimmel is scheduled to return to late-night television after a week of suspension that sparked a nationwide discussion about freedom of speech. Kimmel's remarks concerning the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk led to his suspension from ABC last week, prompting condemnation from several quarters.
However, two regional groups of ABC affiliates will not air Kimmel's first show back. Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group expressed their desire for a commitment to respectful dialogue in their markets before airing his show.
Following his suspension, ABC executives indicated that discussions with Kimmel led to the decision to reinstate him, labeling some of his comments as ill-timed rather than misleading.
Public discussions around the incident have intensified, with Trump-appointed FCC Chairman Brendan Carr criticizing Kimmel's statements as potentially misleading and warning of repercussions if the media does not adhere to better standards. This provoked a defense from notable entertainers who rallied behind Kimmel, condemning censorship in the media.
The return to 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' is poised to attract a large viewership eager to see how Kimmel navigates the controversy that led to his suspension. The late-night landscape is shifting, with viewership declining across many programs, and Kimmel's contract with ABC reportedly extends until May.
