In a week that has thrown late-night television into the national spotlight, legendary talk show host David Letterman has offered fans a rare glimpse into Jimmy Kimmel’s state of mind following the sudden suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” over controversial comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Letterman, now 78 and still revered for his wit and wisdom, spoke candidly at the Atlantic Festival in New York City, sharing details about his recent exchange with Kimmel—an exchange that has become the latest twist in a saga gripping both Hollywood and Washington.

Kimmel’s Text to Letterman: “He’s Gonna Be Fine”

While Jimmy Kimmel himself has yet to publicly address the situation, Letterman revealed that he received a text message from the embattled comedian early Thursday morning. “I have heard from Jimmy,” Letterman told the crowd. “He had been nice enough to text … this morning.”

Letterman, never one to shy away from blunt honesty, then commented on Kimmel’s well-being: “He’s sitting up in bed taking nourishment. He’s gonna be fine.” The quip drew laughter and applause, but also reassurance for fans worried about Kimmel’s future.

Letterman didn’t stop there. He called the entire situation “ridiculous,” adding, “You can’t go around firing somebody because you’re fearful or trying to suck up to an authoritarian criminal administration in the Oval Office. That’s just not how this works.”

The Controversy: What Sparked Kimmel’s Suspension

The drama began during the latest episode of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” when Kimmel discussed the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, and mocked former President Donald Trump’s reaction to Kirk’s death. The segment, which aired on September 10, immediately drew criticism from conservative circles.

President Trump wasted no time weighing in. In a post to Truth Social, he celebrated Kimmel’s show being “CANCELLED,” calling it “Great News for America.” Trump further congratulated ABC for “finally having the courage to do what had to be done,” and dismissed Kimmel as having “zero talent.”

The reaction was swift and polarizing. While some cheered the suspension, others rallied to Kimmel’s defense, sparking a wave of solidarity among fellow late-night hosts and celebrities.

Late-Night Community Responds: Colbert, Stewart, Fallon Speak Out

The fallout didn’t end with Trump’s comment. Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart both spoke out against Kimmel’s suspension, raising concerns about censorship and the future of comedy in America. Colbert, himself no stranger to controversy, called the move “dangerous,” while Stewart mocked Trump’s celebratory tone.

Jimmy Fallon, host of NBC’s “The Tonight Show,” also addressed the controversy. “I don’t know what’s going on,” Fallon admitted, “but I know Jimmy. He’s a decent, funny and loving guy. I hope he comes back.”

The chorus of support from Kimmel’s peers highlighted a larger debate about the boundaries of comedy, free speech, and political pressure in the entertainment industry.

Sinclair Broadcasting and ABC: The Path to Kimmel’s Return

As the dust settles, the future of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” remains uncertain. Sinclair Broadcasting Group, which airs the show, has stated that the suspension could be lifted—but only after “formal discussions are held with ABC regarding the network’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.”

Sinclair has also called upon Kimmel to issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and make a “meaningful personal donation” to both the Kirk family and Turning Point USA.

The demands, while firm, leave the door open for Kimmel’s return, provided he addresses the controversy head-on and demonstrates a commitment to healing the wounds caused by his remarks.

The Bigger Picture: Comedy, Politics, and Cancel Culture

The Kimmel saga is the latest flashpoint in an ongoing cultural battle over what can—and cannot—be said on America’s airwaves. For many, the incident raises questions about the role of comedians in shaping public discourse and the influence of political figures on network decisions.

Letterman’s defense of Kimmel underscores a generational divide among comedians. While Letterman’s era was marked by irreverence and boundary-pushing humor, today’s late-night hosts often find themselves navigating a minefield of political sensitivities and social media outrage.

Barack Obama, weighing in on the controversy, warned of “dangerous” cancel culture, urging Americans to resist the urge to silence voices they disagree with. The former president’s comments echoed a growing concern that the line between accountability and censorship is becoming increasingly blurred.

The Human Side: How Is Kimmel Coping?

Despite the public drama, Letterman’s update offered a rare moment of levity and humanity. Kimmel, according to Letterman, is “sitting up in bed taking nourishment”—a classic Lettermanism that reassures fans the comedian is weathering the storm with humor and resilience.

The personal message, shared between two icons of late-night television, reminds viewers that behind every headline is a person grappling with the consequences of their words and actions.

What’s Next for Jimmy Kimmel?

As ABC and Sinclair negotiate the terms of Kimmel’s possible return, fans and critics alike are left wondering how the host will respond. Will he apologize publicly? Will he address the controversy in his trademark comedic style? Or will the incident mark a turning point for late-night television, ushering in new standards for accountability and professionalism?

For now, the late-night landscape remains in flux. With support from peers like Letterman, Colbert, Stewart, and Fallon, Kimmel has a network of allies rallying behind him. But the final decision rests with ABC, Sinclair, and the court of public opinion.