Kimmel's Ratings Soar After FCC Controversy

Jimmy Kimmel Live! is currently experiencing a significant ratings surge, having dominated the coveted 18-49 demographic for three consecutive weeks as of the week of March 9, 2026. This powerful momentum follows the show's brief suspension from the ABC Network in September 2025, an event that some speculate has galvanized viewers and critics alike.

The broadcast on March 5, 2026, featuring actors Zach Braff and Donald Faison, achieved a 0.21 rating, marking it as the highest-rated episode in the past three weeks. This success is mirrored on digital platforms, with Jimmy Kimmel's YouTube channel amassing 281 million total views and monologue videos averaging an impressive 4.4 million views.

Overall viewership for the show has increased by 22% this year, reaching 1.91 million, with a notable 45% spike in the 18-45 age demographic. Kimmel's return has been characterized by his continued criticism of the Trump administration, an element that has been a point of contention with figures like Donald Trump himself.

The cancellation and subsequent reinstatement have reignited discussions about free speech in the United States. The show's stellar performance suggests that this incident has not only revitalized Kimmel's established fanbase but also attracted new viewers, solidifying its strong position in late-night television.