Jimmy Kimmel has criticized 'anti-American' threats to free speech during an emotional return to late-night US television - following a brief suspension after his comments about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Through tears, the comedian said during Tuesday's comeback show that 'it was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man'.
Kimmel accused the head of the organization that regulates American TV of 'mob tactics', and poked fun at President Donald Trump's appearance at the UN - including an escalator mishap.
But Tuesday's episode was not available to viewers in all markets, due to opposition from some local stations affiliated with Kimmel's network ABC.
Those broadcasters, which are run by companies Nexstar and Sinclair, reportedly account for about one in five of ABC's local stations in the US.
Kimmel's broadcast was available on streaming service Hulu + Live TV, which is owned by ABC's parent company Disney. Kimmel's comments about Trump's reaction to Kirk's death, which were perceived as insensitive, led to his suspension earlier this month.
He's received widespread support from celebrities and fellow comedians, yet faced criticism from Trump, who disparaged Kimmel's return and questioned the show's viability.
In a heartfelt segment, Kimmel also praised Erika Kirk for her grace towards her husband's alleged killer, reinforcing the need for compassion and understanding during divisive times.
