Jimmy Kimmel Returns with Fiery Monologue Targeting Trump
Jimmy Kimmel made a bold return to his show on Tuesday, September 23, directly targeting President Donald Trump. The comedian didn’t hold back, delivering a series of sharp jokes on Jimmy Kimmel Live! following his brief suspension.
Suspension Sparks Controversy
Kimmel had been suspended for nearly a week after addressing the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and showing clips of Trump sidestepping the topic in favor of his renovation plans. The next day, ABC announced the show would be “pre-empted indefinitely.” While many celebrated the suspension, including Trump, critics argued it was an attack on free speech.
Mocking the President
In his opening monologue, Kimmel wasted no time ridiculing Trump. He quipped: “You almost have to feel sorry for him. He tried to cancel me and instead forced millions of people to watch the show.”
He added: “The president made it clear he wants to see me and hundreds of people who work here fired from our jobs. Our leader celebrates Americans losing livelihoods because he can’t take a joke. One thing I learned from Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, and Howard Stern is that a government threat to silence a comedian is anti-American.”
Addressing Sensitivity Concerns
Shifting to a serious note, Kimmel addressed criticism over his coverage of Kirk’s death. Fighting back tears, he said:
“It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man. I don’t think there’s anything funny about it. I posted a message on Instagram the day he was killed, sending love to his family and asking for compassion—and I meant it.”
He also acknowledged Erika Kirk’s remarks at the memorial:
“Erika Kirk forgave the man who shot her husband. That is an example we should follow. It touched me deeply, and if there’s anything we should take from this tragedy, it should be that, not this controversy.”
Trump Responds on Social Media
Trump reacted on Truth Social, expressing confusion and frustration over Kimmel’s return. He wrote:
“I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back. The White House was told his show was canceled! Something happened between then and now because his audience is gone, and his ‘talent’ was never there. I think we’re going to test ABC out on this.”
The post appeared to reference a previous $16 million settlement Trump received from ABC over a defamation lawsuit.
The Battle Continues
Kimmel’s return marks a heated chapter in the ongoing tension between the comedian and the president. With pointed jokes and heartfelt moments, the host balanced satire with sincerity, making his comeback both bold and memorable.
