Jimmy Kimmel announces Brooklyn visit following surge in ratings after suspension from ABC.
Jimmy Kimmel is set to return to the iconic stage of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” next week, marking his first broadcast from Brooklyn since 2022. This comes after a brief suspension by ABC/Disney, following remarks Kimmel made that stirred significant debate. The Emmy Award-winning host’s return promises a star-studded lineup, including prominent figures such as Tom Hanks, Emily Blunt, Ryan Reynolds, and Stephen Colbert, among others. The show will be filmed at the Howard Gilman Opera House at the Brooklyn Academy of Music from September 29 to October 3.
In addition to an impressive slate of celebrity guests, musical acts for this special week will feature renowned artists including Public Enemy, Reneé Rapp, Geese, and Living Colour. Kimmel, who grew up in Mill Basin, has expressed a deep affection for returning to Brooklyn, emphasizing the communal joy it brings to him and his family. The host has articulated that performing in Brooklyn offers a unique atmosphere compared to shows staged in Manhattan, further enhancing the experience for both guests and audiences.
Kimmel’s recent suspension occurred amidst rising tensions surrounding political commentary, particularly in light of conservative backlash related to the shooting of a right-wing commentator. Interestingly, during the brief hiatus, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” achieved unprecedented ratings, earning the highest viewership it has seen in a decade. Following his return, ratings reportedly tripled, boasting an average of nearly 6.3 million viewers. Kimmel’s 28-minute monologue garnered significant social media attention, amassing an additional 26 million views across platforms.
Despite the show’s resurgence in ratings, significant challenges lie ahead. Nexstar Media and Sinclair Broadcasting Group, which operate a combined total of 72 ABC stations across the United States, have stated their ongoing decision to restrict “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” from airing on their networks. This decision emphasizes their commitment to maintaining an environment conducive to respectful dialogue, a move that has provoked further discussions within the media landscape.
As the anticipation builds for Kimmel’s return, the late-night television landscape continues to evolve, reflecting broader societal debates on political discourse and media representation. The forthcoming week in Brooklyn will not only rekindle Kimmel’s roots but also serve as a poignant reminder of the power and influence of late-night television in contemporary culture.
