Overview

• Disney/ABC restored the program after an indefinite suspension it later described as an attempt to avoid inflaming a tense moment, saying the return followed “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel.
• In an emotional monologue, Kimmel said he never intended to make light of Charlie Kirk’s killing or blame a group and called government efforts to pressure broadcasters “anti-American.”
• Nexstar and Sinclair continued to preempt the show in key markets, limiting about one‑fifth of ABC’s national reach, with blackouts reported in Washington, New Orleans, Nashville and Seattle.
• FCC Chair Brendan Carr had warned affiliates about possible regulatory consequences over Kimmel’s remarks, drawing free‑speech objections from across the political spectrum, including Sen. Ted Cruz.
• President Trump criticized ABC for bringing Kimmel back and threatened legal action, while hundreds of entertainment figures publicly supported the host’s return.