Jimmy Kimmel Scores Record Ratings Amid Trump Controversy on Late Night Return

Jimmy Kimmel made a triumphant return to late-night television on Tuesday, drawing 6.26 million viewers and achieving his highest-rated regularly scheduled episode in more than a decade. The comeback followed a week-long suspension prompted by backlash over his remarks concerning the man accused of assassinating conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Despite the show not airing in roughly 23% of U.S. households due to pre-emptions by Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair, the episode generated significant digital engagement. ABC reported nearly 26 million views of Kimmel’s monologue across social media platforms, including 15.3 million on YouTube and 6.3 million on Instagram by Wednesday afternoon.

Kimmel opened the show by addressing the controversy directly, featuring a clip of former President Donald Trump from Air Force One calling him “no talent” and claiming “no ratings.” Smiling, Kimmel responded, “Well, I do tonight!” eliciting strong applause from the audience. He added, “You almost have to feel sorry for him,” blending humour with a serious reflection on the backlash.

The comedian defended political satire, stressing that his intent was never to make light of the murder of a young man. “I don’t think there’s anything funny about it,” he said, acknowledging the criticism while reinforcing the role of comedy in scrutinising public figures. Kimmel also criticised attempts to politicise the tragedy, noting efforts to frame Kirk’s assassin “as anything other than one of them.”

Disney’s decision to end Kimmel’s suspension early was seen as a stand against political pressure, coming amidst threats from fans to cancel Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions. Kimmel joked about this in his monologue: “To reactivate your Disney+ and Hulu account, open the Disney+ app on your smart TV or TV-connected device.”

Federal regulators also weighed in, with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr warning of potential fines or license revocations, yet Kimmel highlighted support from conservatives defending his right to free speech. “I don’t think I’ve ever said this before, but Ted Cruz is right,” he quipped to laughter.

The broadcast underlined how political controversy can amplify viewership and engagement in late-night television, with Kimmel’s blend of humour and candour resonating with audiences across the country.