ABC has no plans to take action against Jimmy Kimmel following criticism over a controversial joke about First Lady Melania Trump, with the network signaling it intends to move forward without disruption.

According to a source at the network, ABC is continuing to support the longtime host of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and does not intend to suspend him, terminate his contract, or cancel the program.

The insider confirmed, “It’s back to taping per usual. They’re moving on.”

The controversy stems from remarks Kimmel made during Thursday night’s broadcast, which featured an “alternative” version of the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. The segment mocked the real event’s decision to feature a mentalist rather than a comedian.

During the monologue, Kimmel delivered a line aimed at Melania Trump that quickly spread online.

“You have a glow like an expectant widow,” Kimmel said. “You know, Melania’s birthday is on Sunday. She’s planning to celebrate at home the way she always does — looking out a window and whispering, ‘What have I done?’”

Just two days after the broadcast, a shooting occurred at the Washington Hilton, the venue hosting the Correspondents’ Dinner, further intensifying the reaction to Kimmel’s remarks.

Melania Trump, 56, responded publicly on X, condemning the comedian’s comments.

“Kimmel’s hateful and violent rhetoric is intended to divide our country. His monologue about my family isn’t comedy — his words are corrosive and deepen the political sickness within America.”

She continued, “Enough is enough. It is time for ABC to take a stand. People like Kimmel shouldn’t have the opportunity to enter our homes each evening to spread hate.”

President Donald Trump also weighed in, calling for immediate action against Kimmel and labeling the joke “shocking” and “far beyond the pale.”

Facing mounting criticism, Kimmel addressed the controversy during his Monday night show, defending his remarks as a straightforward joke referencing the age difference between the president and first lady.

“It was not by any stretch a call to assassination,” he said. “I agree hateful and violent is something we should reject. … A great place to start to dial that back would be to have a conversation with your husband.”

He also spoke directly to Melania Trump, acknowledging the emotional toll of the shooting and describing the incident as frightening.

The late-night host has previously faced disciplinary action, including a suspension last year after remarks connected to the death of Charlie Kirk prompted his show to be temporarily pulled from the air.

Kimmel returned to television within a week, drawing strong viewership numbers, and has since secured a contract extension that keeps him on air through May 2027.

Reflecting on past controversies during a recent episode of “IMO,” Kimmel maintained that political commentary is an unavoidable part of his role.

“Don’t tell me what my job is. I don’t tell you what your job is. My job is whatever I decide my job is, whatever my employer allows me to do. That’s what my job is.”

{Matzav.com}