Jimmy Kimmel show returns to ABC line-up after suspension

Jimmy Kimmel broke his silence Tuesday night in an emotional return to ABC's airwaves, addressing the controversy that temporarily sidelined his late-night show amid a still-swirling storm of political and corporate standoffs.

- JOHN KOBLIN MICHAEL M. GRYNBAUM

A sign is displayed outside the theatre where the Jimmy Kimmel Live! show was making its return in Hollywood on Tuesday.

(GETTY IMAGES/AFP)

"This show is not important," Mr Kimmel said in his opening monologue. "What's important is that we get to live in a country that allows us to have a show like this."

ABC and The Walt Disney Co executives pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air last week after an uproar over the host's comments about the suspected shooter of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

On Tuesday night, Mr Kimmel, choking up, said it "was never my intention" to make light of the killing of a young man.

Among the critics was Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission, who suggested that his agency could take action against the network, setting off a debate about free speech.

Tuesday's show was one of the most anticipated episodes of late-night television in years.