How to Watch Jimmy Kimmel’s Return on ABC: Stations, Streaming, and Celebrity Support

Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show is back on ABC this Tuesday, September 23, after a week-long suspension. Fans can catch the comedian at 11:35 p.m. ET, but not every ABC station will broadcast the episode. The return follows heated controversy after Kimmel’s remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death.

Disney confirmed the return in a statement on September 22. The company said the pause was meant to avoid inflaming tensions. After discussions with Kimmel, ABC announced production would resume, though some affiliates will not air the show. Here’s everything to know about how to watch Jimmy Kimmel’s return.

Why Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Was Paused and Why He Returned

Disney suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on September 17, hours before broadcast. The company said Kimmel’s comments about the shooting of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk were “ill-timed” and could heighten tensions. The move was widely reported by CNN and other outlets.

Kimmel agreed to return after one week. Reports suggest he prioritized his staff’s livelihoods. According to the Daily Mail, he did not want his crew to lose more work or pay. While speculation remains about whether Kimmel will exit ABC when his contract ends in 2026, his immediate focus was supporting his team.

How to Watch Jimmy Kimmel’s Return

“Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will air at 11:35 p.m. on ABC in most markets. However, some affiliates will not broadcast it. Sinclair, which owns 39 ABC stations, confirmed it will preempt the program in select areas, including Washington, D.C. A spokesperson told CNN that discussions with ABC are ongoing.

Fans can also watch the show via streaming services. Options include Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and DirecTV. These platforms ensure national availability even if local affiliates skip the broadcast.

Celebrity Support and Public Reactions

Kimmel’s suspension triggered strong reactions in Hollywood. More than 400 celebrities signed an open letter defending him, coordinated by the American Civil Liberties Union. Stars such as Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, Meryl Streep, Selena Gomez, and Tom Hanks voiced support for free speech and artistic expression. Their collective statement stressed that controversial commentary should not silence late-night comedy.

Meanwhile, critics of Kimmel have continued to argue his remarks crossed a line. The debate highlights the ongoing clash between political sensitivity and entertainment freedom.

Jimmy Kimmel’s return marks an important test for ABC, late-night comedy, and free speech debates. For fans, the main question is simple: how to watch Jimmy Kimmel’s return—whether on ABC or via streaming. The first episode back is set to draw major attention nationwide.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How to watch Jimmy Kimmel’s return live?

You can watch it at 11:35 p.m. ET on ABC or through streaming platforms like Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, and DirecTV.

Q2: Which ABC stations will not air Jimmy Kimmel’s return?

Some Sinclair-owned ABC affiliates, including in Washington, D.C., will preempt the show with news programming.

Q3: Why was Jimmy Kimmel’s show suspended?

Disney paused it on September 17 after Kimmel’s comments about the fatal shooting of activist Charlie Kirk stirred controversy.

Q4: Why did Jimmy Kimmel agree to return?

He returned mainly to support his crew, ensuring they did not miss pay or more work days.

Q5: Which celebrities supported Jimmy Kimmel?

Over 400 stars, including Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Selena Gomez, signed an open letter backing him.