Jimmy Kimmel Live Returns to ABC on September 23, Political Strategist Keith Edwards Declares Public Victory

Jimmy Kimmel Live resumed broadcasting on ABC on September 23, 2025, following a temporary suspension that ignited widespread debate. Political strategist and YouTuber Keith Edwards reacted to the news, interpreting the show's reinstatement as a significant triumph for public opinion over political pressure. His social media post, stating, > "Wow this is big," captured the sentiment of many who viewed the decision as a victory against perceived corporate capitulation.

The show's brief hiatus originated from a controversial monologue by host Jimmy Kimmel, which addressed conservative speaker Charlie Kirk. This monologue drew the ire of FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who publicly threatened ABC and its parent company, Disney, with regulatory actions. The situation escalated as ABC affiliate owners, including Sinclair and Nexstar, announced intentions to pull the program from their local stations.

Edwards, known for his political commentary, directly challenged the narrative that the network yielded to external political pressure. He asserted, "Disney just caved to us, not Trump," crediting public support for Kimmel as the driving force behind the show's return. He further encouraged his followers, stating, "Don’t let them tell you you’re not powerful," emphasizing the collective influence of the audience.

The reinstatement has been viewed by some as a reaffirmation of free speech principles. FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez commended Disney for demonstrating "corage in face of clear government intimidation," highlighting concerns about government influence on media content. The incident underscored the ongoing tension between political power, media independence, and audience impact.

The entire episode has positioned Jimmy Kimmel Live at the heart of a larger national conversation about acceptable discourse boundaries and the intricate relationship between American broadcasting and politics. The differing interpretations of ABC's motives further illustrate the divisive nature of the incident, with some critics suggesting business metrics, rather than public or political pressure, ultimately dictate such decisions.