Disney announces the return date of Jimmy Kimmel’s show after suspension over Charlie Kirk remarks

Disney Confirms Jimmy Kimmel’s Return After Suspension
Pulled Off Air After Controversial Remarks

After a dramatic week off the air, Jimmy Kimmel is set to return to television following a suspension triggered by his remarks about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Disney has announced.

The Incident and Suspension

During the opening monologue of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 15, the 57-year-old host addressed Kirk’s assassination, sharply criticizing how some voices within the “MAGA gang” sought to reframe the motives of the accused. He also lambasted former President Donald Trump for shifting focus to a new $200 million White House ballroom during a period of national fragility.

His comments drew immediate backlash. ABC — the network owned by Disney — responded by suspending the show indefinitely, calling the remarks “ill-timed and insensitive.” The decision, they said, was made in part to prevent the controversy from escalating further.

Public Reaction & Pressure

The suspension triggered a wave of public outcry. Many viewed the move as censorship or undue corporate pressure on free expression. Among those voicing opposition were numerous high-profile celebrities and entertainers, who rallied behind Kimmel and called for his reinstatement as a matter of free speech.

Meanwhile, the political dimension weighed heavily. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), led by Chairman Brendan Carr, had previously warned of potential regulatory consequences if ABC did not act. The threat of federal intervention added further intensity to the standoff.

Disney also faced mounting pressure from business and consumer fronts — including reports of surges in Disney+ cancellations — suggesting financial stakes were also at play.

Disney’s Reversal & Terms of Return

On September 22, Disney announced that, after “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel, they would lift the suspension and resume broadcasting Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Tuesday, September 23. The company maintained it had acted to avoid inflaming a sensitive moment, and that some of Kimmel’s comments were “ill-timed and insensitive.”

Notably, Disney did not require Kimmel to issue a public apology, and sources close to the negotiations suggested that he would retain creative latitude: “Jimmy will say what Jimmy wants to say.”

However, not all is smooth sailing: major affiliate groups Nexstar and Sinclair, which control a significant share of ABC local stations, have opted not to air Kimmel’s episodes for now. They cited a need for assurances regarding professionalism and accountability before resuming broadcast.

Hence, while the show returns to ABC’s national lineup, about a quarter of its local affiliates may still withhold it.

Broader Implications

This episode underscores the tense interplay of media, politics, and corporate governance in contemporary America. On one hand, there is the principle of free speech — supporters of Kimmel argue his critics overstepped by pressuring Disney to silence him. On the other, there is the question of corporate responsibility: when comments by public figures amplify tensions in a highly polarized environment, networks often feel compelled to intervene.

Further complicating matters are regulatory threats. The involvement of the FCC — even as a backdrop — signals how government entities can influence, or at least loom over, content decisions in broadcasting.

The Verge

Disney’s reversal may also reflect business calculations: backlash from consumers and talent, plus reputational costs, might have shifted the calculus. Some analysts contend that Disney’s decision was less about principle and more reactive to market and reputational pressures.

Reuters

Going forward, the balance between editorial freedom, public accountability, and external pressures will continue to be tested — not just for Kimmel, but for other voices in modern media.

No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake – Creamy, Chocolatey, and Effortless

This No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake is a classic dessert that delivers all the flavor of a traditional eclair, without turning on the oven. Layers of creamy vanilla pudding and graham crackers are topped with rich chocolate frosting. As it chills overnight, the graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture, creating a dessert that’s indulgent, creamy, and simple to make.

Ingredients

2 packages (3.5 oz each) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
3 cups milk
2 sleeves graham cracker squares
1 tub (16 oz) chocolate frosting

Instructions

1. Make the Pudding Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, milk, and whipped topping until smooth and fully combined.

2. Layer the Cake

In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom, breaking pieces as needed to cover the dish completely.

3. Add Pudding & Repeat
Spread half of the pudding mixture evenly over the graham crackers. Add a second layer of graham crackers, then spread the remaining pudding on top. Finish with a third layer of graham crackers.

4. Chill
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding to set.

5. Add the Chocolate Frosting
Microwave the chocolate frosting for about 15 seconds to soften (remove the lid and foil seal first), then stir until smooth. Remove the plastic wrap from the chilled cake and spread the frosting evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.

6. Chill Overnight
Cover the dish again and refrigerate overnight to allow the graham crackers to fully soften into a cake-like texture.

7. Serve
Slice into squares and serve chilled for a creamy, chocolatey treat everyone will love.

This no-bake chocolate eclair cake is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you want a quick and impressive dessert.