De Niro Steals the Show as ‘Trump’s FCC Chair’ in Kimmel’s Comeback

Robert De Niro made a surprise return to late-night television on Tuesday during Jimmy Kimmel’s comeback show, playing a fictional version of Donald Trump’s FCC chairman. Kimmel had hinted that actual FCC chair Brendan Carr would appear, after Carr had threatened ABC and Disney—actions that had contributed to Kimmel’s suspension.

Instead, De Niro stepped in, turning the segment into a wild and comedic scene. He played a mob-like regulator, cracking down on free speech in an over-the-top way. At one point, he targeted The View host Whoopi Goldberg, saying, “So you tell Whoopi over there, she better show a little respect, or the only view she’s getting is from under George Washington. The bridge, not the guy.”

The joke referenced Goldberg’s delayed comments on Kimmel’s suspension. When Kimmel asked if De Niro was actually threatening her, he answered, “I would never threaten Miss Goldstein. I was just teaching a lesson about consequences.”

The sketch quickly escalated into a comically aggressive rant about free speech. De Niro shouted, “What the f** did you just say to me? I am the f**** FCC. I can f**** say whatever the f**** I want. Look. It’s just me, Jimmy, the chairman of the FCC, gently suggesting that you gently shut the **** up.”*

He also joked that speech would now be “charged by the word,” letting compliments about the president’s appearance go free, but making critical jokes come at a cost. Kimmel responded to the performance, saying, “Pardon me for saying, and maybe you’re the wrong guy to talk to, but it seems like the FCC is using mob tactics to suppress free speech.”

You can check out the whole video here.

The appearance highlighted Kimmel’s signature style of blending humor with commentary on current events. Using De Niro’s star power, the segment tackled real-life controversies, giving the audience a funny and pointed take on censorship and media pressures.

De Niro’s cameo was both outrageous and playful, a mix of comedy and satire that reminded viewers why late-night shows remain a space for entertainment and cultural commentary. His performance turned a tense topic into a memorable comedic moment on Kimmel’s return.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!