ABC has reinstated Jimmy Kimmel Live! after a week-long suspension following the comedian’s controversial remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension came after major broadcasters Nexstar and Sinclair pulled the show from their stations, intensifying the fallout.

President Trump praised ABC’s initial decision, using the moment to call for other late-night hosts to be fired. FCC commissioner Brendan Carr also condemned Kimmel’s comments, saying they crossed a line. The backlash echoed a larger shakeup in late night, coming just months after CBS canceled Stephen Colbert’s show.

Kimmel, whose contract with ABC runs through May 2026, has defended himself, warning of a chilling effect on comedians if political pressure dictates what they can or cannot say. Hollywood and Broadway stars rallied behind him, signing an open letter urging the protection of constitutionally guaranteed free expression.

Meanwhile, ABC’s daytime talk show The View addressed the controversy after initially staying silent for two episodes, with co-hosts debating whether Kimmel went too far or was unfairly targeted.

Kimmel is expected to return to his desk this week, but the controversy has fueled new questions about the boundaries of comedy, politics, and free speech on network television.