Disney Bows to Pressure, Brings Back Kimmel

By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Editor | JRL CHARTS – LGBT Politics

Disney Bows to Pressure, Confirms Kimmel’s Return

LAS VEGAS — (September 22, 2025) — After a whirlwind suspension that sent shockwaves through politics and entertainment, Disney announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will return to air Tuesday night. The network cited “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel following his controversial remarks linking Charlie Kirk’s assassin to MAGA politics.

“After careful consideration, we’ve decided to bring Jimmy back,” Disney said in a statement. “We remain committed to open dialogue — even during tense times.”

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FCC Threats & Affiliate Backlash

The firestorm escalated after FCC chair Brendan Carr threatened ABC’s affiliate licenses. Major station groups Nexstar and Sinclair quickly announced plans to preempt Kimmel’s show, citing “viewer concerns.”

Behind the scenes, Kimmel had reportedly refused to apologize, insisting his comments were mischaracterized by MAGA supporters. Disney brass feared his defiance would pour gasoline on an already volatile situation, leading to the abrupt “indefinite suspension.”

Politicians, Celebrities & Unions Erupt

The suspension drew praise from Trump and far-right pundits, but the broader backlash was fierce.

Gov. Gavin Newsom blasted Republicans for “real-time censorship.”
Barack Obama warned of a “new and dangerous level” of government intimidation.
Ben Stiller, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jean Smart, Marc Maron and hundreds of Hollywood voices condemned the move.
SAG-AFTRA and the WGA declared Disney’s decision “a corporate act of cowardice.”

Even FCC commissioner Anna Gomez rebuked Carr: “This agency has no authority to police speech simply because the government dislikes it.”

Media Freedom on the Line

The episode is being framed as a tipping point in media freedom. Critics argue that Disney, Nexstar, and Sinclair caved to political threats, effectively testing the boundaries between corporate compliance and state-run media. Some consumers pledged to boycott Disney+ and Hulu, further pressuring the entertainment giant.

The Uncertain Future of Late Night

Kimmel’s return also lands at a fragile moment for late night TV. CBS just canceled The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and with Skydance set to close its CBS acquisition, the industry is in flux.

Kimmel’s own contract expires next year, and while he’s flirted with retirement before, insiders now wonder if Disney’s handling of this crisis will push him to walk — or embolden him to stay and fight.

Jimmy Kimmel Live Return to ABC on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

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