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After weeks away from television, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel made a powerful return to Jimmy Kimmel Live! — and he wasted no time unleashing a passionate and fiery monologue aimed directly at former President Donald Trump and his critics.
The September 23 episode marked Kimmel’s first appearance since his brief suspension, and it was clear from the opening moments that he was ready to speak his mind. In a segment that quickly went viral, the comedian addressed Trump’s public celebration of his hiatus and responded with trademark wit and biting commentary.
“You almost have to feel sorry for him,” Kimmel joked, referring to Trump’s repeated attempts to cancel the show. “He tried so hard to get me fired, and instead he convinced millions of people to tune in.”
The host then shifted from humor to a more serious tone, criticizing the former president for actively trying to get people in the entertainment industry fired simply for making jokes about him. “The President of the United States wanted me and my team out of work,” Kimmel said. “Think about that. A man who was supposed to lead this country openly rooting for people to lose their jobs because he doesn’t like a punchline.”
He argued that such behavior goes against the fundamental values of free speech and democracy, referencing legendary comedians like Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, and Howard Stern — all of whom faced backlash for pushing boundaries but ultimately contributed to America’s tradition of satire and criticism. “That’s not how America works,” Kimmel added. “We don’t silence comedians. We challenge them. We debate them. But we don’t try to erase them.”
Addressing the Charlie Kirk Controversy
Kimmel also took time during his monologue to address recent criticism surrounding his remarks on conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was tragically killed earlier this year. Some accused the comedian of insensitivity, but he firmly rejected that narrative.
“I never intended to minimize or mock the death of a young man,” he said. “On the day Charlie passed, I posted my condolences to his family — and I stand by that now.”
Kimmel explained that while he has often disagreed with Kirk’s political views, that disagreement does not diminish the tragedy of his death. He also reflected on the powerful moment during Kirk’s memorial service when his wife, Erika, forgave the person responsible for the shooting.
“Her strength and compassion were deeply moving,” Kimmel shared. “If there’s one thing we should take away from this heartbreaking event, it’s that forgiveness is far stronger — and far more healing — than hatred.”
Trump’s Angry Reaction
Unsurprisingly, Trump didn’t stay silent after Kimmel’s return. Taking to Truth Social, he blasted ABC for allowing the comedian back on the air, writing: “I can’t believe ABC Fake News let Jimmy come back. His ratings are gone, and his so-called ‘talent’ was never there to begin with.”
Kimmel, however, seemed unfazed by the former president’s criticism. In fact, he appeared energized by the renewed feud, using it as fuel to continue speaking out. “I’ve been doing this job for a long time,” he said. “I know when I’ve struck a nerve.”
A Defiant Return
Kimmel’s return was more than just a comeback — it was a statement about the role of comedy in modern society. By refusing to back down from political pressure and standing firm on issues of free speech, accountability, and empathy, he reminded viewers why late-night television has long been a space for both laughter and truth-telling.
In a political climate where entertainers are often targeted for their opinions, Kimmel’s message was clear: he isn’t going anywhere. And if anything, the controversy has only strengthened his resolve.
“Comedy isn’t supposed to make everyone comfortable,” he concluded. “It’s supposed to make people think. And if a joke gets under the skin of a former president, then maybe that’s a sign it’s doing exactly what it’s meant to do.”
