Explore the full timeline of Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension from ABC, from Trump’s remarks to network fallout. Stay updated with this detailed breakdown.
Table of Contents
Here’s the Timeline of Jimmy Kimmel’s Suspension
Introduction
In a shocking move, ABC suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely on Wednesday, pulling the late-night host off the air just hours before the scheduled taping. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions between late-night comedians and the Trump administration, following controversial remarks and growing political scrutiny. Here’s a day-by-day timeline of events leading up to Kimmel’s suspension.
Timeline of Events Leading to Jimmy Kimmel’s Suspension
Thursday, July 17 – Colbert’s Show Cancelled
CBS announced the cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,” citing financial pressures. The move raised eyebrows as it came shortly after Paramount settled a lawsuit from President Donald Trump.
Tuesday, July 22 – Trump Targets Kimmel
On Truth Social, Trump declared:
“Jimmy Kimmel is NEXT to go in the untalented Late Night Sweepstakes and, shortly thereafter, Fallon will be gone.”
This sparked speculation that late-night comedy was becoming a political battleground.
Thursday, July 24 – Paramount Merger Approved
The Trump administration approved a merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media, further fueling industry chatter about potential political influence on media deals.
Wednesday, August 6 – Trump Doubles Down
During a press Q&A, Trump again referenced Kimmel, calling him out for past criticisms.
Monday, September 15 – Kimmel’s Controversial Remarks
Following the arrest of Tyler Robinson, the suspected assassin of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Kimmel addressed the issue on his show, criticizing the political exploitation of the tragedy:
- Kimmel accused “MAGA groups” of trying to weaponize the incident.
- He commented on the White House’s half-staff flag decision, noting Trump’s emotional reaction.
- The show then aired a clip of Trump pivoting to unrelated White House ballroom construction.
Tuesday, September 16 – Backlash Intensifies
- Pro-Trump websites and Fox News condemned Kimmel’s remarks, citing law enforcement reports about the suspect’s political leanings.
- On his next show, Kimmel doubled down: “Many in MAGA-land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk.”
Wednesday, September 17 – FCC and Network Pressure
- FCC Chair Brendan Carr called Kimmel’s remarks “the sickest conduct possible,” even suggesting ABC affiliates could face license challenges.
- Nexstar Media Group, which runs two dozen ABC affiliates, issued a statement condemning Kimmel and vowed to pull his show from local schedules.
- Other station groups followed, fueling speculation they sought to curry favor with the Trump administration, as they had pending mergers requiring approval.
Just minutes later, ABC confirmed that “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” would be pulled nationwide indefinitely.
Why This Suspension Matters
Kimmel’s suspension highlights:
- The growing clash between media and politics.
- How corporate mergers and FCC oversight can influence programming decisions.
- Rising concerns about free speech and political pressure in late-night television.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Jimmy Kimmel suspended by ABC?
Kimmel was suspended after controversial remarks about the killing of activist Charlie Kirk sparked backlash from political leaders, media outlets, and FCC officials.
Q2: When did ABC announce Kimmel’s suspension?
ABC announced the indefinite suspension on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, just hours before taping.
Q3: Did Trump influence the suspension?
While Trump repeatedly criticized Kimmel, ABC cited network and affiliate concerns. However, the timing has fueled debate about political influence in media.
Q4: Which networks criticized Kimmel?
Fox News, pro-Trump websites, and ABC affiliates such as Nexstar strongly objected to his remarks, pushing for action.
Q5: Is “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” returning?
ABC has only said the show is “pre-empted indefinitely.” No official return date has been given.
Conclusion
Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension is the latest chapter in the turbulent relationship between politics and late-night TV. With network affiliates, the FCC, and political leaders weighing in, the future of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” remains uncertain.
👉 What’s your take—was ABC right to suspend Kimmel, or was this political overreach? Share your thoughts in the comments below.