Jimmy Kimmel made his return to Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Tuesday after nearly a week-long suspension following his comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Although he expressed regret, Kimmel stopped short of offering a full apology.
In his emotional monologue, Kimmel explained that his intention was never to make light of the tragic death of Kirk, who was killed earlier this month at a Utah Valley University event. He clarified remarks that suggested the suspected shooter, Tyler Robinson, had ties to the MAGA movement. Kimmel acknowledged that his comments upset many viewers, saying, “It was never my intention to make light of a murder. I don’t think there’s anything funny about it.”
Despite this, Kimmel did not issue a direct apology. Instead, he took a moment to praise Kirk’s widow, Erika, for her act of forgiveness towards her husband’s alleged killer, calling it a “selfless act of grace.”
The suspension came after widespread criticism, including from former President Donald Trump and conservatives, and some ABC affiliates, particularly those owned by Sinclair, chose not to air the show. The controversy continues to impact the program, as boycotts of Disney persist.
