Jimmy Kimmel's year has been anything but ordinary. The renowned talk show host experienced both an abrupt suspension and a rapid reinstatement in 2025, marking a tumultuous period in his career. Despite these challenges, Kimmel remains outspoken and engaged, recently taking the opportunity to speak directly to audiences in the United Kingdom.
On Thursday, Kimmel appeared on the British television network Channel 4 to present the station's traditional "alternative Christmas message," providing a counterpoint to the customary Royal Christmas speech that the UK public is accustomed to hearing each holiday season. His appearance was notable not only for the timing but for the bold content of his message.
Beginning with self-deprecating humor, Kimmel admitted uncertainty over his recognition among British viewers, saying, "I have no idea if you know who I am." However, he quickly transitioned to discussing the state of affairs in his home country, particularly referencing the political climate under President Donald Trump. Kimmel characterized 2025 as a "great year"—from a dark perspective—highlighting a surge in what he described as "tyranny" and authoritarianism in the United States.
Earlier in the year, Kimmel's show faced significant hurdles. In September, ABC took the extraordinary step of suspending "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" indefinitely after the host made remarks that stirred controversy concerning the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. These comments attracted criticism from the Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Brendan Carr, who cautioned that broadcast licenses held by affiliates could be subject to review, further intensifying the scrutiny around Kimmel's remarks.
This suspension sparked widespread reactions across the entertainment industry and ignited debates about free speech boundaries. Many in Hollywood expressed opposition to the decision, underscoring the tension between content creators and regulation.
The suspension was, however, short-lived. Within a week, Disney, the parent company of ABC, rescinded the suspension and announced Kimmel's return to nightly broadcasts. Reflecting on this incident during his Christmas message, Kimmel stated, "My country's president would like to shut me up because I don't adore him in the way he likes to be adored. We won, the president lost, and now I'm back on the air every night." His remarks conveyed both personal vindication and a critique of the political pressures he has encountered.
Continuing, Kimmel painted a bleak picture of the current condition of the United States, referring to it as a "right mess." He cautioned that the nation is engaged in a process that is "both figuratively and literally tearing down the structures of our democracy," emphasizing the severity of the political and social upheaval. Despite this somber assessment, he appealed to the British public not to lose faith in the United States, pledging that American citizens remain committed to restoring stability and democratic principles.
"Give us about three years, please," Kimmel implored, suggesting a hopeful timeline for recovery and reform. This message came amid news that Kimmel had agreed to extend his contract to continue hosting "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" through May 2027, signaling his ongoing presence in late-night television.
Prior to the broadcast, Channel 4 issued a statement highlighting the significance of Kimmel's message, noting that the return of Donald Trump to the White House and the global ramifications of his presidency had dominated 2025. The network described Kimmel as an insightful figure suitable to address these themes, particularly given his direct involvement in America's contentious debates over free speech.
Overall, Kimmel's Christmas message serves as a candid account of the challenges facing the United States and a plea for international understanding and patience as the nation navigates this turbulent era.