Jimmy Kimmel returns: 'Due to a clerical error at the White House we are back on Air'

Jimmy Kimmel has staged his return to late-night television following the suspension of his show over remarks the comedian made regarding the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. "I'm happy to be here tonight," Kimmel declared.

"It's been overwhelming," Kimmel stated during his opening monologue since Disney, ABC's owner, pulled his late-night program from the network last week following pressure from Trump administration officials regarding his statements about the shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. "I've heard from a lot of people over the last six days, I've heard from people all over in the world over the last six days, everyone I have ever met has reached out."

Greeted by thunderous applause from the studio audience welcoming his comeback, Kimmel refused to apologize or show remorse, instead immediately unleashing a series of sketches targeting the man who forced him off the airwaves - President Donald Trump.

"He's like Dracula he's going to keep sucking the life out of us," Kimmel proclaimed before delivering jokes referencing the continuing feud between Trump and South Park over the President's anatomy, being "aroused" by Trump and attacking his position on free speech.

British comedian Ricky Gervais joined Kimmel following the Trump-focused segment but refrained from participating in the attack.

Tuesday afternoon saw Kimmel share an image of himself with deceased TV writer Norman Lear on his personal Instagram account, writing, "Missing this guy today." Lear championed First Amendment rights protecting free speech.

ABC's decision to remove Kimmel's show indefinitely last week over his assassination comments about pro-Trump activist Charlie Kirk triggered outrage among celebrities, politicians and others who viewed it as free speech suppression. Disney, ABC's parent corporation, revealed Monday that Kimmel's program would resume after "having thoughtful conversations" with the host.

The Jimmy Kimmel Live! Instagram account posted a photograph showing Kimmel embracing program regular Guillermo, with the caption, "We are back full of love."

"Why would they want someone back who does so poorly, who's not funny, and who puts the Network in jeopardy by playing 99% positive Democrat GARBAGE," Trump posted on Truth Social Tuesday evening.

Despite Disney's decision to restore Kimmel's show, almost one-third of ABC affiliates will refuse to broadcast the program after Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group opted to maintain their boycott of the series.

Kimmel's program returned to ABC at 11:35 p.m. ET Tuesday night. Audiences can also watch the show via Hulu and Disney+ streaming services and view highlights on YouTube.