Jimmy Kimmel made an emotional return to ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ tonight (September 23) after his headline-grabbing suspension.
Fighting back tears, he addressed the firestorm that saw his show pulled from the air, igniting an outpouring of emotion.
His comeback followed weeks of backlash over comments about the death of controversial right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk, which triggered ABC affiliates Sinclair and Nexstar- two of the U.S.’s largest broadcast groups – to drop the late-night series “indefinitely.”
While ‘Kimmel’ is back on ABC nationally, the show remains off-air across those networks’ affiliate regions (roughly 20% of the nation). No doubt a lingering reminder of just how divisive the drama continues to be.
During his monologue, Kimmel drew on humor and raw emotion, uniquely thanking supporters on both sides of the political sphere while refusing to apologize for his remarks. Instead, he defended free speech, acknowledged the threats his family has faced, and choked up recalling Kirk’s widow’s public act of forgiveness (which he likened to the forgiveness Jesus showed).
More than anything, he emphatically made clear that he would not be silenced – no matter the political or corporate pressure. Nor President Donald Trump “wanting” him “fired.”
Watch Kimmel’s full monologue below, where key quotes also await.
