A Strong Comeback for Kimmel
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has made a powerful return to television, achieving his highest ratings in more than 10 years with his first episode back after being suspended. His show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, aired on ABC to massive viewership as fans tuned in to see how he would handle his much-anticipated comeback.
Background: Why the Suspension Happened
Kimmel was temporarily sidelined earlier this year after remarks he made caused controversy and led to public backlash. While the suspension sparked debate, it also built anticipation around his return. Many were curious whether he would apologize, soften his style, or continue with his signature sharp-edged humor.
Record-Breaking Ratings
According to Nielsen, Kimmel’s return episode pulled in over 6 million viewers, the largest audience for his show in more than a decade. The numbers not only eclipsed his average ratings but also put him ahead of competitors like Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon in the late-night race.
ABC celebrated the achievement, noting that the episode was among the most-watched installments of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since its launch in 2003.
Kimmel Addresses the Controversy
In his return monologue, Kimmel took the suspension head-on, blending humor and humility. He joked about the time away, poked fun at himself, and thanked fans for their unwavering support. His ability to acknowledge the controversy while keeping the tone light was praised by both viewers and critics.
Jimmy Kimmel Set for TV Comeback: Late-Night Show to Return After Suspension (2025)
Public and Media Reaction
The comeback sparked a wave of reactions on social media. Fans applauded his honesty and comedic timing, while critics observed that his strong ratings prove late-night TV can still command attention despite competition from streaming platforms.
What’s Next for Jimmy Kimmel
It remains uncertain whether Kimmel can sustain the ratings surge, but his successful return highlights his resilience. With two decades in late-night television under his belt, this moment may mark a turning point — one that solidifies his place as one of the most enduring figures in modern comedy.