Jimmy Kimmel—along with his late-night talk show—came within a hair’s breadth of being canceled by ABC. This decision followed on the heels of his problematic remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. That suspension was temporary, however. Largely due to the rapid advocacy of Nexstar and Sinclair, they were soon able to restore the program after an immediate and intense backlash from audiences—even amid pressure from affiliate associates.
The fight really escalated when former President Donald Trump bashed Kimmel on Truth Social. He claimed that the comedian had “NO TALENT” and known for “VERY POOR TELEVISION RATINGS.” Trump escalated things when he demanded that ABC fire Kimmel—which set off a fierce reaction from Kimmel.
Kimmel, known for his sharp wit and humor, retaliated by stating he would gladly vacate his position if Trump agreed to resign as well. He even jokingly called Trump a “snowflake,” bringing his trademark comedy touch to the matter of the ban.
“I have honestly lost count now of how many times the president has demanded I be pulled off the air,” – Jimmy Kimmel
Kimmel’s long-running war with Trump isn’t the exception to the rule. The ex-president has made this kind of demand before, though such calls for Kimmel’s firing seem to come about every five weeks lately. Kimmel likened Trump’s behavior to that of an angry driver on the highway, suggesting that such reactions should simply be ignored.
The outrage over Kimmel’s suspension comes at a time where another front in the culture war is being considered by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The FCC pledged to study if major national broadcasters such as ABC have too much power over local affiliates. Comments from the public on this re-evaluation can be submitted until December 10.
Kimmel’s show returned after significant public support, illustrating the audience’s commitment to his program. He weighed in on the firestorm with his trademark wit. No doubt it’s due to what they’d have to do if they tried to strangle me the last time,” he quipped.
Seth Meyers, a fellow late-night host who has been targeted by Trump in the same caustic way, weighed in to congratulate Colbert on the same. He quipped about how one should deal with aggressive drivers, adding, “You just ignore them – unless you’re in New Jersey, then, technically, that’s a marriage proposal.”
As Kimmel continues to lead through this new development in his years’ long feud with Trump, he’s not backing down. He wrapped up with a pragmatic offer of running mate advice to Trump, never forgetting to add that they should “ride off into the sunset together.”
“You’ve done this before. You tried to get me fired in September. It didn’t work, Mr. President, I admire your tenacity,” – Jimmy Kimmel