Jimmy Kimmel Says the Past Year Felt Like a "Near-Death Experience" After Critics Choice Win

Late-night icon Jimmy Kimmel reflected on what he called an emotional roller-coaster of a year as he accepted the Best Talk Show award for 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' at the 2026 Critics Choice Awards. Kimmel compared the turbulent time, which included a contentious suspension of the show and extensive public scrutiny, to "almost a near-death experience" in his address and subsequent remarks to the media. He even joked that it was like "witnessing his own funeral." In addition to signaling his victorious comeback to the limelight, his victory highlighted the difficulties he has encountered and the value of resiliency in comedy and free speech. 

Triumph and Turmoil: Kimmel's Tumultuous Year

One of the most well-known figures in late-night television for a long time, Jimmy Kimmel has won praise for his razor-sharp wit and ability to combine humour with cultural analysis. 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' has been a mainstay of late-night entertainment for decades, attracting viewers with its blend of touching moments, humorous sketches, and celebrity interviews. But even his seasoned toughness was put to the test during the past year.

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In September 2025, Kimmel's show was temporarily suspended for six days after comments he made about the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk sparked national debate and backlash, including public pressure and calls for cancellation. The controversy ignited broader discussions around free speech, comedy and the limits of critique in a politically charged climate. 

Following the suspension, Kimmel described to reporters how surreal the experience felt—"like Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn watching their own funeral," he said, capturing the emotional impact of witnessing one's own career temporarily paused and hotly contested. The live show finally resumed airing despite the intense outcry, but Kimmel had to deal with constant criticism, notably that of former President Donald Trump, who frequently demanded that the show must be canceled. Through it all, the comedian's dedication to his craft, coupled with industry and public support, kept him going.

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A Powerful Critics Choice Awards Moment

Held on 4th January, at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, the 31st annual Critics Choice Awards honoured achievements in the film and television industry in a wide range of categories. The ceremony, which was hosted by Chelsea Handler, recognized a wide range of exceptional accomplishments, including Best Picture, acting, television, and talk show honours. Among the winners was 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!,' which took home the award for Best Talk Show, a major triumph after a challenging year.

In his acceptance speech, Kimmel struck a balance between humour and seriousness. He thanked the writers, actors, producers, and union members who supported him through difficult times while also gently teasing fellow nominees like 'The Daily Show' and 'Late Night with Seth Meyers' for missing the ceremony.

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Additionally, he made news by sarcastically thanking former President Trump for "all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day," which Kimmel believed helped raise the show's profile. Throughout, Kimmel reiterated his commitment to free speech and comedy, making it clear that the experience has strengthened his resolve rather than weakened it.

Looking Ahead After a Challenging Year

Kimmel's comments at the end of the 'Critics Choice Awards' night highlighted a larger message about tenacity and the enduring power of entertainment. Instead of allowing controversy to define him, he made use of his position to emphasize the value of defending artistic freedom against intense criticism and political pressure. In addition to helping 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' return to the airwaves, the support he got from coworkers, fans, and peers in the business solidified his position in late-night television as a strong voice dedicated to both humor and insightful analysis.

While the past year may have felt like "almost a near-death experience" to Kimmel, his Critics Choice win stands as a testament to his enduring relevance and the lively, often contentious role of comedy in today's cultural landscape. 

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