Robert De Niro makes surprise cameo as ‘new’ FCC chair on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Jimmy Kimmel’s return to Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 23 included a memorable, unexpected cameo: Robert De Niro appeared via video as a fictional new FCC chair. 

In the sketch, Kimmel thought he would be speaking with real FCC chairman Brendan Carr, but was instead greeted by De Niro.

When Kimmel suggested the FCC was using mob tactics to silence him, De Niro responded bluntly: “What the f--- did you just say to me?”

Kimmel reminded De Niro that he couldn’t curse on broadcast television without risking an FCC fine, to which De Niro replied, “I am the f------ FCC, I can say whatever the f--- I want.”

When Kimmel pushed back, calling it “threat and intimidation,” De Niro answered, “Gently shut the f--- up.”

De Niro also announced a new FCC slogan: “Sticks and stones may break your bones…” Kimmel countered with, “But words can never harm you,” and De Niro replied, “Oh, well, they can harm you now. Let’s make sure you pick the right words. Capisce?”

Earlier in the episode, Disney had officially confirmed the show’s return after nearly a week off the air. In their statement, they said the suspension was meant to avoid inflaming tensions following controversy over Kimmel’s remarks about the murder of political activist Charlie Kirk.

Meanwhile, Sinclair and Nexstar, major ABC affiliate owners, have confirmed they will continue preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live! in many markets, even as the debate over free speech, censorship, and broadcast control intensifies.