Robert De Niro made an unannounced appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! during the show‘s September 23 return to air, surprising viewers and adding intensity to the episode. The actor took on the fictional role of the FCC chairperson in a sketch, delivering bold, mob-style dialogue amid heightened tensions surrounding Jimmy Kimmel’s recent controversial remarks.
The Sketch: De Niro as a Fierce FCC Chair
Kimmel’s show had been on indefinite suspension just days prior, following his comments about the fatal shooting of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk. In the sketch, De Niro appeared remotely as the new FCC chair, responding sharply when Kimmel questioned whether the FCC used intimidation tactics. De Niro’s blunt reply was,
“What the f**k did you just say to me?”
Robert De Niro then declared,
“I am the f***ing FCC, I can say whatever the f**k I want.”
When Kimmel pointed out that using profanity normally results in fines, De Niro retorted,
“It’s just me, Jimmy, the chairman of the FCC, gently suggesting that you gently shut the f**k up.”
The sketch ended with De Niro introducing a new FCC motto:
“Sticks and stones may break your bones,”
and adding,
“Oh, well, they can harm you now. Let’s make sure you pick the right words. Capisce?”
Context of the Show’s Suspension and Return
This surprise appearance coincided with Disney’s announcement that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would resume airing on September 23 after discussions with the host. The initial pause was intended to
“avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country.”
However, Nexstar Media and Sinclair Broadcasting confirmed they would continue to preempt the show on their ABC affiliates. Nexstar described Kimmel’s September 15 remarks as “ill-timed and insensitive,” stating that their replacement programming would remain until they were confident of “respectful, constructive dialogue.”
Kimmel’s Response to the Controversy
Earlier, Kimmel addressed the situation in his monologue, criticizing political exploitation of the killing while showing clips of President Donald Trump discussing White House ballroom renovations. He also publicly expressed sympathy, writing,
“On behalf of my family, we send love to the Kirks and to all the children, parents and innocents who fall victim to senseless gun violence.”
The Significance of De Niro’s Appearance Amid Ongoing Tensions
Robert De Niro’s unexpectedly sharp cameo underscored the strained atmosphere surrounding Jimmy Kimmel Live!’s recent controversies, reflecting broader national tensions. The sketch’s assertive tone and brash language highlighted the uneasy climate for public discourse on sensitive issues. The show’s return, despite continued station preemptions, signals ongoing debates over free speech, media responsibility, and the boundaries of political commentary on television.
