At the time, he was recently announced as the frontrunner for the Republican nomination, sitting comfortably in an armchair opposite Kimmel, as they chatted like old acquaintances.

Feud reignites after 2024 election

Following Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election against Kamala Harris, Kimmel returned to his show with a sharp critique of the re-elected president.

He was visibly emotional as he addressed viewers in the aftermath of the election.

“Let’s be honest. It was a terrible night last night,” he said.

“It was a devastating night for women, for children, for the hundreds of thousands of hard-working immigrants who keep this country going, for health care, for our climate, for science, for journalism, for justice, and for free speech.”

“The night was grim for poor people, for the middle class, for seniors who depend on Social Security, for our allies in Ukraine, for NATO, for the truth, and for democracy and decency.”

The host criticized the MAGA movement for leveraging the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk to score political points, leading Disney’s ABC to suspend the show.

“Jimmy Kimmel Live will be pre-empted indefinitely,” an ABC spokesperson told CNN, declining to share any further details.

Trump was fast to respond with celebratory post on Truth Social.

“Great News for America: The ratings challenged Jimmy Kimmel Show is CANCELLED,” Trump wrote.

“Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done. Kimmel lacks talent and has even worse ratings than Colbert, if that’s possible. That leaves Jimmy and Seth as two complete failures on Fake News NBC. Their ratings are also appalling. Do it NBC!!! President DJT.”

Kimmel is yet to respond, however is said to be “livid” over the decision, according to US media reports.