Key Takeaways:

• Jimmy Kimmel returns to his late night show tonight after winning a Critics’ Choice Award.
• During his acceptance speech, he mockingly thanked “Donald Jennifer Trump.”
• The show faced a brief suspension in September after an FCC threat.
• Kimmel delivered an emotional monologue, crediting fans for pulling the program through a tough year.

Shortly before his first show of 2026, Jimmy Kimmel issued a playful warning to Donald Trump. The host had just won the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Talk Show. In his speech, he made it clear he would be ready to roast every new Trump headline. Tonight, viewers can expect Kimmel back in full force.

Jimmy Kimmel’s Return and Trump’s Reaction

Earlier this week, Jimmy Kimmel stood on the Critics’ Choice stage to collect his trophy. Then he turned his thanks directly to the former president. He joked, “Thank you, Mr. President—Donald Jennifer Trump—for all the ridiculous things you do.” Kimmel added that the past few weeks gave his team “plenty to break down” on air.

Moreover, Kimmel has long suggested Trump watches his show live. While the comment remains unconfirmed, it has fueled fun back-and-forths. In fact, Trump once called for the program’s cancellation in a furious social media post. He demanded that networks pull the plug on Kimmel’s jokes. Yet tonight, the host returns stronger than ever.

The Battle Over ABC’s License

In September, Jimmy Kimmel’s show faced a five-day halt after the FCC chair threatened to revoke ABC’s license. The warning came from a Trump appointee upset by Kimmel’s material. As a result, the network suspended the show from September 17 to 22. However, massive viewer outrage led ABC to reinstate the program the next week.

During that break, fans expressed their frustration across social media. They flooded the network with calls and posts. As a result, ABC reversed its suspension and apologized. Then Jimmy Kimmel came back on air, emotional and grateful for the audience’s support.

Why Kimmel’s Show Matters

On his final episode of 2025, Jimmy Kimmel confessed it had been a hard year. He grew visibly emotional as he addressed his viewers. He said, “You literally pulled us out of a hole this year, and we can’t thank you enough.” Those words hit home for many fans who felt the same way.

He explained that his show and others like it help people cope. With so many troubling events happening daily, a late night laugh can ease stress. Kimmel noted that hearing viewers say his program made them feel less crazy helped him feel less crazy too. In this way, the show served a real purpose beyond just jokes.

As he looked ahead to 2026, Kimmel promised more honest monologues and sharp satire. He thanked everyone who tuned in, shared a clip, or simply laughed along. Then he teased that coming episodes would dive into the most recent political headlines.

What to Expect Tonight

Jimmy Kimmel will kick off his 2026 season with fresh segments and guest interviews. He plans to revisit the stories he mentioned in his Critics’ Choice speech. First up are Trump’s latest comments and any new controversies. Then he will likely highlight cultural moments that caught his eye over the holidays.

Viewers can also expect fun sketches, musical performances, and surprise guests. Kimmel often balances political jabs with lighter fare. That mix keeps the show lively while still making viewers think. And since he has openly dared Trump to keep watching, the jokes may hit even harder.

Looking Ahead

As Jimmy Kimmel steps back behind the desk tonight, he brings momentum and confidence. The Critics’ Choice Award serves as proof that critics and audiences still love his late night style. Meanwhile, his willingness to call out political figures shows he plans to keep the show fearless.

For fans who supported him through threats and a brief shutdown, this return feels personal. Kimmel has made it clear that he values their loyalty above all. So tune in tonight to see how he transforms real-world drama into sharp comedy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Jimmy Kimmel say about Donald Trump at the Critics’ Choice Awards?

He playfully thanked “Donald Jennifer Trump” and said the past weeks gave his team plenty to discuss on his show.

Why was his late night show suspended in September?

An FCC chair, appointed by Donald Trump, threatened to revoke ABC’s license over Kimmel’s material, prompting a five-day pause.

How did fans react to the show’s suspension?

Viewers expressed widespread outrage on social media and called the network, leading ABC to quickly reinstate the program.

How does Jimmy Kimmel say his show helps viewers?

He believes late night comedy offers relief from troubling news, helping audiences feel less overwhelmed and more connected.