Jimmy Kimmel Launches Explosive $220 Million Lawsuit, Sues Donald Trump for $120 Million Over Alleged Tortious Interference and ABC for $100 Million Over Wrongful Suspension  After He Was Taken Off the Air and Suspended Over Charlie Kirk Remarks

Jimmy Kimmel Sues Donald Trump and ABC in Explosive $200 Million Lawsuit After Suspension Over Charlie Kirk Comments

In a stunning legal turn that has shaken both Hollywood and Washington, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has filed dual lawsuits totaling $200 million, targeting Donald Trump and his own network, ABC, following his sudden suspension earlier this year after making on-air remarks about the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

According to court filings, Kimmel is seeking $150 million in damages from Trump, alleging tortious interference with contract and business relations, claiming the former president personally pressured ABC executives to silence him after the controversial broadcast. Additionally, Kimmel is suing ABC for $50 million, accusing the network of wrongful suspension and breach of contract, insisting his removal violated both his contract and his right to free expression.

“This was not just about a suspension,” Kimmel’s attorney said outside the Los Angeles courthouse. “This was about political retaliation, plain and simple. Our client’s livelihood, reputation, and creative freedom were undermined by powerful forces working behind the scenes.”

The Suspension That Sparked a Firestorm

The conflict began after an episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! where the host openly criticized Charlie Kirk, who had been assassinated earlier this year. Kimmel’s monologue, which blended biting satire with sharp commentary, reportedly drew complaints from conservative circles. Within days, ABC suspended him indefinitely, citing “violation of internal broadcast standards.”

However, Kimmel now alleges that Trump himself played a decisive role in his ouster, leveraging influence over the network to retaliate against a long-time critic.

The Claims in Detail

Against Trump: Kimmel’s lawsuit claims Trump’s “malicious and deliberate interference” led to the suspension, directly costing him tens of millions in lost income, endorsement deals, and reputational damage. Against ABC: The network is accused of breaking its contractual obligations, which guaranteed Kimmel editorial independence and protection from politically motivated disciplinary actions.

Industry Shockwaves

Hollywood insiders say the lawsuits could set a historic precedent for entertainers navigating the line between free speech, corporate oversight, and political influence.

“Rarely do you see a comedian take on both a former president and his own network in court,” said one media analyst. “If Kimmel wins, it could completely reshape the way late-night TV operates and embolden other hosts to push back against corporate or political pressure.”

Trump and ABC Respond

While Trump has yet to make a formal statement, sources close to him dismissed the claims as “baseless” and “another Hollywood stunt for attention.” ABC, meanwhile, said it would “vigorously defend itself against unfounded allegations,” insisting Kimmel’s suspension was “entirely consistent with contractual standards.”

What’s Next

Kimmel, who has been a fixture on late-night television for over two decades, says he’s prepared for a “long legal fight” to reclaim his platform and hold both Trump and ABC accountable.

“I’ve made a career out of making jokes,” Kimmel told reporters. “But this lawsuit is no joke. This is about standing up to bullies—whether they sit in the Oval Office or in a corporate boardroom.”

The first hearings are expected later this fall, with legal experts predicting a fierce courtroom battle that will blur the lines between politics, entertainment, and corporate power.