U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday evening that he plans to “test” Disney’s (NYSE:DIS) ABC network after it reinstated Jimmy Kimmel Live! following a one-week suspension. The show had been pulled over Kimmel’s controversial remarks about slain activist Charlie Kirk.
In a social media post, Trump expressed disbelief at ABC’s decision and claimed Kimmel’s audience was “gone.” He also accused the comedian of pushing Democratic agendas, echoing similar accusations he has made against other mainstream media outlets. Trump suggested he may pursue legal action against ABC, saying he would “test ABC out” over its decision.
Trump added: “Let’s see how we do. Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 million. This one sounds even more lucrative.” He was referring to the $15 million settlement he won from ABC in late 2024 after suing the broadcaster for allegedly defamatory election coverage.
Shortly after Trump’s remarks, Kimmel’s show aired with fresh jabs at the president. The comedian mocked Trump’s attempts to cancel his program, quipping: “He tried his best to cancel me, instead he forced millions of people to watch.” Kimmel also joked that Trump might have to “release the Epstein files” to distract attention.
Kimmel further criticized the Trump administration, specifically FCC Chair Brendan Carr, accusing him of trying to silence free speech. Carr had previously urged ABC and Disney to pull the show, even suggesting regulatory pressure if they did not comply.
Still, Kimmel expressed sympathy over Kirk’s killing, clarifying that his intention was never to mock the tragedy. “I don’t think the murderer who shot Charlie Kirk represents anyone… this was a sick person who thought violence was a solution, and it isn’t, ever,” he said emotionally.
Kimmel had earlier joked that the alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, was aligned with Trump’s MAGA movement and mocked Trump’s muted response to Kirk’s death. The president and his allies strongly condemned Kimmel’s remarks, blaming Democrats and the political left for rising violence in the country.
Trump had initially praised Kimmel’s suspension as “great news for America.” However, the cancellation drew backlash against Disney and ABC, with critics saying it undermined free speech. Some Republican lawmakers also opposed the suspension, warning it set a dangerous precedent.
Trump has frequently clashed with media outlets, often suing those he accuses of defamation. Just last week, he filed a $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times.
