Jimmy Kimmel Returns to Late-Night: Reactions from Hollywood and Politics

Just days following the unexpected suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', the beloved host is poised to restart his duties on the talk show circuit.

Industry and Political Figures Respond

The recent announcement from the Walt Disney Company, which manages ABC, confirming the comeback of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' has sparked a wave of reactions among well-known stars and politicians. The decision follows a prior ABC statement declaring the show's abrupt halt, prompted by Kimmel's remarks about right-wing activist Charlie Kirk's passing. The temporary cancellation was driven by criticism from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and the Nexstar Media Group, linked to ABC affiliates.

While some, including former President Donald Trump, were pleased with the show's suspension, the move triggered resistance from others, prompting protests and spurred calls for a boycott against Disney. However, a turnaround occurred on Monday when Disney declared Kimmel’s return to broadcast.

Ben Stiller's Enthusiastic Reaction

Comedian and actor Ben Stiller expressed his excitement over Kimmel's impending return. Sharing the latest development on the social media platform X, Stiller added celebratory emojis, emphasizing his support. In previous statements, Stiller had voiced his disagreement with the decision to remove Kimmel’s show.

California Governor Gavin Newsom Weighs In

Governor Gavin Newsom of California responded publicly on X, directing criticism towards FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. He stated, "Thanks to everyone but @BrendanCarrFCC—this upholds free speech everywhere."

FCC Chair Brendan Carr's Perspective

In remarks made at the Concordia Summit in New York City, Brendan Carr addressed inquiries about the return of Kimmel's show. Carr emphasized the FCC's role in bolstering local TV stations, advocating for their capacity to reflect communal needs. He argued that dominant networks like Disney and ABC wield excessive sway over these stations, inhibiting them from opposing unsuitable content.

Carr clarified that assertions of the FCC imposing license threats against Disney and ABC unless they dismissed Kimmel were misleading, labeling some narratives as 'projection and distortion.'

Reactions from Turning Point USA

Andrew Kolvet, representing the conservative entity Turning Point USA founded by Charlie Kirk, commented on X about Disney and ABC’s decision to reinstate Kimmel. "Their concession isn't startling, but they'll have to deal with the consequences," Kolvet wrote, urging Nexstar and Sinclair to consider different decisions.

Mark Hamill's Take

Mark Hamill, renowned for his role as Luke Skywalker in 'Star Wars,' took to Threads to share a headline pronouncing "KIMMEL BACK!" He humorously suggested an imminent uproar on 'Truth Social'.