Former US President Donald Trump criticized ABC for allowing Jimmy Kimmel to return to late-night TV. Trump accused Kimmel of performing poorly, being unfunny, and endangering the network by promoting mainly positive Democratic content. Trump expressed disbelief that ABC reinstated Kimmel’s show despite allegedly informing the White House of its cancellation earlier. He labeled Kimmel as a tool of the Democratic National Committee, implying it could be an illegal campaign contribution.
Trump hinted at taking action against ABC, citing a past monetary settlement received from the network. He concluded by calling ABC a group of losers and suggested Kimmel’s show was doomed due to low ratings. ABC previewed Kimmel’s monologue shortly before airing, with Kimmel expressing gratitude for being back on the show.
Audience members reported that Kimmel’s episode felt unifying, with some praising his stance on freedom of speech regarding controversial comments about Charlie Kirk. While Kimmel did not apologize, he made it clear he was not mocking Kirk’s tragic death. One audience member mentioned Kimmel acknowledging Kirk’s wife’s forgiveness, describing it as a moving and emotional moment.
Despite positive feedback, Kimmel’s viewership was impacted as two major ABC affiliate owners decided not to air his show in certain cities, such as St. Louis, Nashville, and Richmond. This decision left audiences in those areas with alternative programming options.