NEW YORK – TV host Jimmy Kimmel defended free speech when he returned to US screens on Tuesday, calling government pressure on his late-night talk show “anti-American” as critics decried his suspension as an attack on constitutional rights. In a lengthy opening monologue, an emotional Kimmel praised the public outrage — which came from both left and right — over his suspension, as President Donald Trump threatened to sue ABC, the TV network that carries the show. “A government threat to silence a comedian the president doesn’t like is anti-American,” Kimmel said to wild applause. “Our government cannot be allowed to control what we do and do not say on television.” Kimmel, who frequently skewers Trump and his inner circle, raised the ire of conservatives last week when he said “the MAGA gang” was trying to exploit the college campus murder of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. On Tuesday he struck a conciliatory note. “It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man,” he said, his voice cracking. “Nor was it my intention to blame any specific group for the actions of what it was obviously a deeply disturbed individual.” Kimmel’s suspension last week had sparked glee for Trump, who has long hated the mockery he suffers at the hands of late night comedians. Hours before the show’s reappearance, the 79-year-old took to social media to complain — and threaten ABC. “Why would they want someone back who does so poorly, who’s not funny, and who puts the Network in jeopardy by playing 99 percent positive Democrat GARBAGE?” he wrote. “I think we’re going to test ABC out on this. Let’s see how we do. Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 Million Dollars. This one sounds even more lucrative.” It was not immediately clear what legal grounds Trump might think he has. Previous suits against media firms — including the one against ABC — were largely viewed as meritless, but settled seemingly as a way to appease the often-vengeful president. Audience members who had watched the Hollywood taping told a wire service Kimmel had struck the right tone. “It was great. It really was. He was humble, funny, and just very genuine. His delivery was on point, heartfelt… And it was very genuine,” said Dana Lotkowski, 62, who flew in from Philadelphia for the show. “He spoke really eloquently and he gave like a lot of love to everyone who’s been hurt,” said Katie Persico, 34. “I felt like I was part of history a little bit for free speech.”
