Celebrity reactions poured in after ABC announced the return of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” to television. The show was initially suspended due to comments made by host Jimmy Kimmel about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Politicians and celebrities, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Senator Chuck Schumer, expressed support for Kimmel’s return, saying it was a victory for free speech.
On the other hand, some critics, like Megyn Kelly and Matt Walsh, disagreed with the decision, claiming it was too lenient on Kimmel. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) also weighed in, describing the cancellation as unconstitutional and un-American.
The FCC chairman, Brendan Carr, had initially criticized Kimmel’s comments. However, some celebrities, including Ben Stiller, celebrated the news, with Stiller tweeting three raised hands emojis to express his support for Kimmel’s right to free speech. The debate over the suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” continues, with many questioning whether the decision was a threat to Americans’ constitutional rights.
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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/22/us/jimmy-kimmel-show-return-reactions.html