Is Kimmel Back on the Air? Disney Confirms Tuesday Return After Suspension

Yes, Jimmy Kimmel is back on the air. Disney announced that “Jimmy Kimmel Live” will return on Tuesday, six days after being suspended. The decision comes after strong backlash and internal talks between Kimmel and Disney executives.

The late-night host was pulled from ABC’s lineup after comments about the killing of political activist Charlie Kirk drew sharp criticism. Disney said the remarks were “ill-timed and thus insensitive,” but confirmed his show would resume this week.

Why Was Jimmy Kimmel Suspended?

On September 16, Kimmel made comments during his monologue about the political ties of the accused gunman in Kirk’s assassination. His remarks triggered outrage among conservatives and even a warning from U.S. communications regulator Brendan Carr. According to Reuters, Carr suggested broadcasters could face fines or license reviews if a pattern of distortion was proven.

Disney initially suspended the show to avoid “inflaming a tense situation.” However, the move sparked a consumer backlash. Many Disney+ subscribers launched a social media campaign to cancel their subscriptions, driving a spike in searches like “how to cancel Disney+.”

Disney’s Decision and What It Means

After private talks with CEO Bob Iger and Entertainment Co-Chair Dana Walden, Disney reversed its suspension. Executives said the decision was made in the company’s best business interests, not due to outside pressure. Sources confirmed that Kimmel is expected to address the issue directly when his show returns.

The reinstatement is seen as a significant moment in the media landscape. It represents a rare pushback from a major entertainment company against political pressure, including criticism from President Donald Trump, who had celebrated Kimmel’s suspension as a “cancellation.”

Public Reactions and Broader Impact

The response has been mixed. Supporters of free speech welcomed Disney’s reversal. Media experts argue the decision was driven more by consumer reaction than constitutional principles. Opponents, including Turning Point USA, called the move a mistake.

The controversy highlights the growing clash between media, politics, and public sentiment. For Disney, the balance between business risks and creative freedom remains critical. Kimmel’s return marks both a test of his resilience and Disney’s commitment to its talent under pressure.

In short, yes — Kimmel is back on the air. His return will be closely watched, as both supporters and critics await his first words on the matter.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Kimmel back on the air right now?

Yes. Disney confirmed “Jimmy Kimmel Live” will resume on Tuesday night after a six-day suspension.

Q2: Why was Jimmy Kimmel suspended?

He was suspended after remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination, which Disney called “ill-timed and insensitive.”

Q3: Did consumer backlash influence Disney’s decision?

Yes. Many subscribers canceled or threatened to cancel Disney+ accounts, creating financial pressure on the company.

Q4: What role did the FCC play in Kimmel’s suspension?

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr criticized Kimmel’s comments and hinted at possible regulatory action, though Disney denied outside influence.

Q5: Will Kimmel address the controversy on air?

Yes. Sources say he will discuss the issue directly when his show returns.

References

Reuters. (2025). Disney says Kimmel will return to the air on Tuesday, six days after suspension.

Associated Press. (2025). Disney reinstates Jimmy Kimmel after suspension over Kirk remarks.

BBC News. (2025). Disney reverses Kimmel suspension after backlash.