Overview
- Kimmel told U.K. viewers that “tyranny is booming” in the United States and mocked President Trump as “King Donny the Eighth.”
- He said “the American government made a threat” that preceded ABC taking his show off the air, and he framed his swift return as a victory secured by millions who spoke up for free expression.
- ABC had briefly suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! in September after backlash to his remarks tied to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk; Trump praised the suspension and has urged networks to drop late‑night critics.
- Kimmel apologized for the spillover effects of U.S. politics, urged Britons not to give up on America, and asked for “about three years” to recover.
- Channel 4 said it chose Kimmel because U.S. politics dominated 2025 and he has been on the front line of a free‑speech fight, while the White House response reported by outlets was limited or dismissive.