Jimmy Kimmel, the late-night host, will take a two-month break from his ABC show. Starting July 6, guest hosts including Tiffany Haddish, Anthony Anderson, Ike Barinholtz, Colman Domingo, and Jelly Roll will fill in, as per an ABC press release.
Kimmel announced on his show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” that he would be taking this break voluntarily. He humorously referenced his suspension last year, which resulted from comments about reactions to Charlie Kirk’s death.
Rosie O’Donnell, known for her opposition to Donald Trump, will also guest host during Kimmel’s absence. Kimmel jestingly requested the President not to do anything foolish while he is away.
Last year, “Jimmy Kimmel Live” faced a brief removal from air due to a controversy. This occurred after Kimmel criticized some Republicans’ responses to the conservative commentator Charlie Kirk’s death. The remarks prompted strong reactions from Republican figures and FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who considered regulatory action.
Protests followed, with debates over free speech erupting outside Walt Disney Studios and ABC headquarters. Kimmel returned on September 23, addressing the suspension with emotion. He clarified he never intended to trivialize Kirk’s death, highlighting the importance of free speech.
The episode where Kimmel returned garnered over 6 million viewers. During his monologue, he emphasized the privilege of having a platform for free expression.