Jimmy Kimmel returned to his late-night show with an emotional statement addressing recent controversy over his comments about Charlie Kirk. Last week, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely after Kimmel mocked President Trump’s reaction to Kirk’s assassination. The comedian had shown clips of Trump focusing on White House renovations instead of the tragedy.

The suspension sparked divided reactions. Some, including Trump, praised ABC’s decision, while others criticized it as an attack on free speech. Trump later questioned ABC’s decision to reinstate Kimmel’s show, claiming the comedian’s audience had disappeared and questioning his talent.

On his first show back, Kimmel expressed regret, saying he never intended to make light of Kirk’s death. Holding back tears, he emphasized his sympathy for Kirk’s family and his prior message offering compassion. Kimmel acknowledged that his earlier remarks may have come across as ill-timed or unclear.

Kimmel also referenced Kirk’s widow, Erika, who forgave the man who killed her husband during the memorial service. He said her forgiveness was a powerful example everyone should consider, highlighting it as a meaningful takeaway from the tragedy.

Later in the episode, Kimmel addressed President Trump directly, accusing him of trying to cancel the show. He noted that Trump’s efforts ironically increased viewership. Kimmel criticized the president for wanting him and his colleagues fired, calling it a government attempt to silence a comedian.

Kimmel concluded by invoking the legacy of comedians like Lenny Bruce and George Carlin, stating that government attempts to silence comedians over jokes are un-American. The show remains a focal point in discussions about comedy, politics, and free speech.