Jon Stewart Speaks Out

Jon Stewart has joined the chorus of talk show hosts mocking Donald Trump after Jimmy Kimmel Live! was suspended. Kimmel’s show went off the air indefinitely after he criticized Trump’s “bizarre” responses to questions about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kirk, 31, was shot in the neck during a debate at Utah Valley University on September 10. Kimmel had mocked Trump’s deflection, comparing it to “a child grieving a goldfish.” His remarks sparked controversy, with some calling for the host to be fired.

Kimmel’s Suspension and Network Demands

The Sinclair Broadcast Group, ABC’s largest affiliate, outlined three demands Kimmel must meet to return to air. They also required formal discussions regarding “the network’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.”

Meanwhile, FCC Chair Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee, publicly condemned Kimmel’s remarks. He hinted at potential regulatory consequences for ABC and Disney, including threats to broadcast licenses, if such content continued.

Stewart Returns on Thursday

With Kimmel off the air, all eyes turned to other hosts. Jon Stewart returned to The Daily Show on Thursday, September 18, defending Kimmel indirectly during his opening monologue.

Stewart, usually a Monday host, commented on free speech, saying the First Amendment now seems dictated by “niceness to the President.” He added that if this standard fails, the FCC may step in to threaten mergers and acquisitions of network affiliates.

Taking Shots at Trump

Stewart also made sharp remarks about Trump, referring to him at one point as our “dear leader.” He noted that some might interpret recent “speech concerns” as a cynical attempt to consolidate power. Then, in typical Stewart fashion, he quipped, “Not me, though… I think it’s great.”

He continued joking, calling the show “another fun, hilarious, administration-compliant show,” and playfully shushed the audience when they laughed.

Stewart’s Return Signals Bold Commentary

Stewart’s Thursday appearance underscored the continued tension between talk show hosts and the Trump administration. By defending free speech and mocking the President, he positioned himself as both critic and commentator, highlighting the high stakes of political comedy in 2025.