Trump threatens legal action as ABC reinstates Jimmy Kimmel, calls network ‘fake news’ and comedian ‘arm of the DNC’

Donald Trump on Wednesday slammed ABC for reinstating late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, claiming the network had previously “cancelled” the comedian’s show.

“I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back,” Trump said. “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.”

Trump did not hold back in criticizing Kimmel’s comedic abilities and political leanings.


“Why would they want someone back who does so poorly, who’s not funny, and who puts the Network in jeopardy by playing 99% positive Democrat GARBAGE,” he said. “He is yet another arm of the DNC and, to the best of my knowledge, that would be a major Illegal Campaign Contribution.”


Trump also hinted at potential consequences for ABC.

“I think we’re going to test ABC out on this. Let’s see how we do. Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 Million Dollars. This one sounds even more lucrative. A true bunch of losers! Let Jimmy Kimmel rot in his bad Ratings,” he added.

Why was Jimmy Kimmel’s show suspended?

Kimmel’s late-night show was pulled off air indefinitely after he allegedly made controversial comments regarding the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

While the comedian condemned the Utah shooting and called it a “senseless murder,” he also criticised Trump and what he called the “MAGA Gang” of supporters for their response to Kirk’s death.

Two of ABC’s largest affiliate owners, Nexstar and Sinclair, refused to air the show upon its return, citing Kimmel’s remarks. Together, they represent roughly a quarter of ABC’s affiliates. Both companies are seeking assurances from ABC that future programming will foster “respectful, constructive dialogue.”

The Walt Disney Co., which owns ABC, said the decision to suspend and then reinstate the show was made after “thoughtful conversations with Jimmy” and to avoid further inflaming a tense national situation.

Mixed reactions to Kimmel’s suspension

Kimmel’s suspension and return drew reactions across the American political spectrum.

Former US President Barack Obama warned that the Trump administration’s criticism of the media marked a “dangerous level” of government influence over journalists and commentators.

Conservative voices, including Megyn Kelly, condemned Kimmel’s comments as misleading, while supporters of free speech, including actor Jean Smart, defended the comedian’s right to express his views.

Congressional Democrats later proposed legislation aimed at strengthening free speech protections against government pressure, highlighting the ongoing debate over media independence in the wake of Kimmel’s suspension.