Jimmy Kimmel has responded to President Donald Trump’s comments concerning the late-night host’s return to television following ABC’s decision to lift his contentious suspension. Trump conveyed his dissatisfaction on Truth Social, remarking, “I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back.” Kimmel humorously reacted, “You can’t believe they reinstated my job? I can’t believe we reinstated yours!”

Trump lambasted Kimmel for ostensibly jeopardizing the network by endorsing “99% positive Democrat GARBAGE” and suggested the possibility of legal action against ABC, reminiscing about a past $16 million settlement he acquired from Paramount. Kimmel jested about Trump’s inconsistent actions, stating, “Only Donald Trump would attempt to show he wasn’t threatening ABC by actually threatening ABC.”

Trump appeared to mix up various networks, mentioning the Paramount settlement, which was condemned by advocates of press freedom and labeled a “big fat bribe” by Stephen Colbert. CBS, a subsidiary of Paramount, terminated the Late Show shortly thereafter, while the Trump administration sanctioned Paramount’s merger with Skydance.

Kimmel’s suspension sparked free speech debates, following FCC chairman Brendan Carr’s warning regarding ABC’s broadcasting license. Kimmel ridiculed the scenario, highlighting Trump’s penchant for undermining his staff’s justifications with his social media updates.

In Q2, Kimmel’s show attracted 1.77 million viewers, ranking second to Colbert, whereas Trump confronted dwindling approval ratings. Kimmel addressed those who believe he is excessively critical of Trump, clarifying his aversion to bullies and comparing Trump to a stereotypical movie bully.

Kimmel also remarked on the conservative backlash stemming from a halted escalator incident involving Trump at the United Nations, poking fun at the president’s request for an inquiry.