Jimmy Kimmel will return to his late-night television program, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, after a suspension lasting nearly a week. This suspension led to a nationwide discussion about freedom of speech and the influence of political figures on media. The show is set to resume on September 26, 2025, following what ABC described as “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel.
The suspension was initiated after Kimmel made comments regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which drew significant backlash. Critics, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), condemned Kimmel’s remarks, with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr labeling them as “truly sick.” In response, two major ABC affiliates, Nexstar and Sinclair, which together control approximately a quarter of ABC affiliates, announced they would not air Kimmel’s return.
The suspension and subsequent reinstatement of Kimmel’s show underscore the ongoing tensions between media personalities and political entities. Kimmel criticized the reaction from President Donald Trump and his supporters, accusing them of attempting to politicize Kirk’s death. The network’s decision to lift the suspension has drawn various reactions, reflecting broader concerns about censorship and the responsibilities of public figures in their statements.
In other news, the entertainment landscape continues to evolve with significant events and personalities making headlines.
Sean “Diddy” Combs faces sentencing in early October after his conviction on two prostitution-related charges. His legal team has requested a maximum of 14 months in prison, aiming for a lighter sentence following his exoneration in July from more severe charges. Prosecutors plan to recommend a longer sentence than initially anticipated.
The world of cinema mourns the loss of acclaimed Italian actress Claudia Cardinale, who passed away at the age of 87. Known for her roles in iconic films such as Federico Fellini’s “81⁄2” and Luchino Visconti’s “The Leopard,” Cardinale began her career at a young age and became celebrated as a U.N. goodwill ambassador for women’s rights.
The Booker Prize shortlist has also been announced, with Kiran Desai emerging as a favorite for her novel “The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny.” This marks her return to fiction after her award-winning book, “The Inheritance of Loss.” The competition features notable authors, including Andrew Miller and David Szalay, with the winner set to be revealed on November 10, 2025.
In film reviews, Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest work, “One Battle After Another,” has garnered attention for its exploration of recurring political struggles in modern America. Critics highlight its blend of humor and tragedy, providing a poignant commentary on societal issues.
Additionally, acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro is auctioning parts of his extensive movie memorabilia collection, motivated by the recent dangers posed by wildfires near his storage location. The auction, hosted by Heritage Auctions, began on September 26, 2025, with further events planned for the following year.
As the entertainment industry continues to navigate a landscape marked by both celebration and controversy, these stories reflect the dynamic interplay of cultural influence and personal responsibility in the public sphere.