Trump Threatens Legal Action Against ABC Over Jimmy Kimmel's Return

Former President Donald Trump has threatened legal action against ABC after the network reinstated 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' following a suspension. The show was initially pulled after Kimmel's monologue included remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticized ABC's decision, stating, 'He [Kimmel] is yet another arm of the DNC [Democratic National Committee] and, to the best of my knowledge, that would be a major Illegal campaign contribution.' He further suggested potential litigation, referencing a previous settlement where ABC paid him $16 million.

ABC has not publicly responded to Trump's comments. The network proceeded with airing 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on Tuesday, and there is no indication of further action against Kimmel in light of Trump's remarks.

Legal experts note that Kimmel's comments are protected under the 'media exemption' in campaign finance law, which allows media entities to cover and comment on political campaigns without such coverage being considered a political contribution. This exemption applies as long as the media entity is not controlled by any political party, committee, or candidate, and is acting as a press entity in conducting the activity at issue.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has not indicated any intent to take action against ABC or Kimmel regarding the content of the show.