Jimmy Kimmel returns from suspension, show sets 10-year ratings high

Core Points - Jimmy Kimmel's return to "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" attracted 6.26 million viewers, marking the highest-rated episode in over a decade despite not airing in about 23% of U.S. households [2][7] - The episode's monologue gained significant traction on social media, with nearly 26 million views across platforms, including 15.3 million on YouTube and 6.3 million on Instagram [3] - Kimmel's suspension was lifted by ABC after pressure from both the Trump administration and his fans, who threatened to cancel subscriptions to Disney+ and Hulu [4][5] Company Actions - ABC's parent company, Disney, faced pressure to reinstate Kimmel, showcasing corporate defiance against the Trump administration's media scrutiny [4] - Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair chose not to air Kimmel's show on their ABC stations, affecting approximately 23% of U.S. households [7] - Disney continues to offer Kimmel's show on various streaming platforms, ensuring accessibility despite local broadcast issues [9] Industry Context - The late-night television format is experiencing challenges as viewership declines due to a shift towards streaming services, particularly among younger audiences [6] - U.S. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr threatened investigations against ABC and its affiliates, indicating potential regulatory pressures on broadcasters [10] - Senate Majority Leader John Thune expressed that government should not interfere with programming decisions, highlighting the ongoing debate about media freedom and regulation [11]