what happened with jimmy kimmel show

The Jimmy Kimmel Live! show was suspended indefinitely by ABC in September 2025 after Jimmy Kimmel made controversial remarks about the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel had accused the "MAGA gang" of trying to politically exploit Kirk's death. His comments prompted a strong backlash, including from Brendan Carr, the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), who criticized Kimmel's remarks and suggested potential regulatory consequences for ABC affiliates that aired the show. The decision to pull the show came just before Kimmel was scheduled to record an episode, leaving guests and audience members surprised. ABC's suspension followed public pressure from the FCC chairman and owners of local ABC- affiliated stations, some of whom were seeking approval for mergers. Former President Donald Trump praised ABC's decision, while advocacy groups criticized it as an attack on free speech. The show's future remains uncertain, with no timeline announced for its return. Kimmel's contract with ABC runs through May, and there is speculation about whether he will continue or tone down his political commentary if the show resumes. The situation has shocked many in the entertainment industry given Kimmel's long-standing relationship with ABC and history of political humor.