Jimmy Kimmel Live! The show’s return was first announced by the Walt Disney Co., which owns ABC. That decision came after some lengthy negotiations with the show’s host, Jimmy Kimmel. Last Wednesday, the network announced it was halting production in response to Kimmel’s reportedly unfortunate comments. Similarly, this controversial decision is a reflection of how sensitive that moment in time is for the country.
This preemption was originally enacted to prevent exacerbating a situation that was already very charged. In a statement, The Walt Disney Co. stressed the importance of being courteous and considerate during this historic and emotional time.
“Last Wednesday, we made the decision to suspend production on the show to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country. It is a decision we made because we felt some of the comments were ill-timed and thus insensitive,” – The Walt Disney Co.
Since that suspension, Kimmel has stayed silent on the show’s preemption, or its impending return. Kimmel’s frank discussions with the network were central to the decision-making process for returning the show to air.
“We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.” – The Walt Disney Co.
Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC has recently established itself as one of late-night television’s hit shows. Ever since its debut, it has garnered a very large and loyal viewership. Kimmel’s return is an encouraging sign not just for him, but for the entire ABC family. They’re wading into deep waters yet managing to mix humor with the day’s news.
Her show’s unexpected hiatus underscored the power that late-night shows, especially in times of national introspection, can wield. Kimmel’s preparing to return. Viewers are of course itching to know how he’ll address all this and whether he’ll mix his trademark humor with a more sober conversation.
