Milan, Sept. 24 (LaPresse) – After nearly a week off air, Jimmy Kimmel returned to primetime with his talk show Jimmy Kimmel Live! and opened the episode with an emotional statement, clarifying he never intended to joke about the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. With a shaky voice, Kimmel said he did not mean to downplay the tragedy or blame any specific group, stressing that the perpetrator was a “deeply disturbed individual.”
He also criticized ABC affiliates that had pulled the show, calling their decision “un-American,” and thanked both his supporters and those who, despite disagreeing with him, defended his right to free speech — including Republican Senator Ted Cruz.
Kimmel was particularly moved by Kirk’s widow, praising her for publicly forgiving her husband’s killer. He admitted to being angry with ABC for the suspension but praised his bosses for putting him back on air, knowing it came with risks.
He also took aim at President Donald Trump, who had slammed Kimmel on social media for low ratings and pushing Democratic “propaganda.” Kimmel fired back, saying Trump’s attempt to cancel him only brought more viewers.
Later in the show, actor Robert De Niro appeared as FCC Chairman Brendan Carr — a Trump appointee — delivering a satirical line: “Sticks and stones may break your bones.”
Meanwhile, Trump continued his tirade on Truth Social, threatening legal action against ABC for rehiring Kimmel, calling him a “loser” with terrible ratings.