Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert, and Jimmy Fallon kicked off their late-night programs on Thursday with a blend of humor and support for suspended ABC host Jimmy Kimmel. Stewart utilized satire to criticize ABC’s indefinite suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following Kimmel’s remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Meanwhile, Colbert condemned the suspension as “blatant censorship,” and Fallon commended Kimmel and affirmed his commitment to continuing his show.
The guests on the shows after Kimmel’s suspension, which occurred two months after CBS announced the cancellation of Colbert’s show, varied widely. Fallon welcomed actor Jude Law, journalist Tom Llamas, and actor/singer Jonathan Groff, none of whom addressed Kimmel’s situation.
Stewart and Colbert interviewed guests who could speak to the censorship concerns raised by Kimmel’s suspension. Journalist and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Maria Ressa joined Stewart, sharing insights on persevering through challenging times. Ressa, the author of “How to Stand Up to a Dictator,” recounted her experiences at the news site Rappler under Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s regime.
Stewart’s show began with a voiceover pledging compliance with the establishment’s views. He humorously praised the president and parodied his critiques of major cities and use of the National Guard to combat crime. The set was altered to mock Trump’s ostentatious décor choices in the Oval Office. Stewart playfully engaged with the audience, creating a light-hearted atmosphere.
Fallon addressed Kimmel’s suspension in his monologue on “The Tonight Show,” expressing support for Kimmel and emphasizing his positive attributes. Kimmel’s suspension came after he made controversial comments on his show regarding Charlie Kirk’s killing, leading to ABC’s decision to suspend the show.
Colbert, on “The Late Show,” began his segment with a parody of a Disney song, expressing solidarity with Kimmel and criticizing the suspension as inadequate. He defended freedom of speech and pushed back against calls for stricter content standards. Colbert’s discussions with guests and former host David Letterman highlighted concerns about government interference and media censorship.
The late-night hosts’ responses to Kimmel’s suspension reflected a mix of support, humor, and critiques of censorship, underscoring the ongoing challenges facing media outlets in today’s political climate.