Kimmel’s Return Hits Record Ratings Despite Boycott

Jimmy Kimmel returned to ABC on Tuesday night with a record-breaking episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, drawing 6.3 million viewers despite a partial boycott by local stations.

Nexstar and Sinclair, which together cover about 23 percent of U.S. households, have refused to air the show following Kimmel’s controversial comments last week. Before the suspension, the show had been averaging around 1.77 million viewers.

Kimmel’s return came after Disney said it had held “thoughtful conversations” with the host regarding his remarks about the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

Kimmel had criticized MAGA Republicans, accusing them of using the tragedy for political gain. Kirk was shot on September 10 at Utah Valley University, and authorities have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson in connection with the murder.

During his monologue, Kimmel addressed the controversy and appeared emotional. “I do want to make something clear, because it’s important to me as a human and that is you understand that it was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man,” he said. “I don’t think there’s anything funny about it.”

He also spoke about reaching out to Kirk’s family and encouraged compassion. “I meant it and I still do, nor was it my intention to blame any specific group for the actions of what was obviously a deeply disturbed individual,” Kimmel added.

He highlighted a moment from Kirk’s memorial in Arizona. “On Sunday, Erika Kirk forgave the man who shot her husband. She forgave him,” Kimmel said, visibly moved.

“That is an example we should follow. If you believe in the teachings of Jesus, as I do, there it was. That’s it. A selfless act of grace, forgiveness from a grieving widow. It touched me deeply.”

The suspension had drawn attention from politicians, celebrities, and the public. Over 400 celebrities signed an open letter criticizing ABC’s decision. Former President Barack Obama also spoke out in defense of free speech.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump initially praised ABC for taking the show off the air but later criticized the network when it allowed Kimmel to return. “I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “The White House was told by ABC that his Show was cancelled! Something happened between then and now because his audience is GONE, and his ‘talent’ was never there.”

Even with the boycott, Kimmel’s return made a big splash online. His comeback monologue went viral, gaining over 14 million views on YouTube and 5.7 million views on Instagram by Wednesday, making it his most-watched clip in more than a year, according to Rolling Stone.

The episode shows that despite controversy and limited broadcasts, Kimmel’s audience remains engaged. His emotional and heartfelt monologue resonated with viewers, highlighting both the tension around his suspension and his attempt to clarify his intentions.

It’s clear that Kimmel’s ability to connect with viewers is strong, even in the face of backlash. The episode proves that audience loyalty can outweigh controversy. What do you think about Kimmel’s return and the local station boycott? Share your thoughts in the comments.