KENTUCKY (FOX 56) — A couple of Kentucky lawmakers made the cut in Jimmy Kimmel's first monologue since he returned to air.

The long-running late-night host came out to a standing ovation from fans of the show.

He choked up while explaining he never meant to mock Kirk's death and spent part of his opening monologue thanking fellow comedians and lawmakers for their support during his suspension.

"I want to thank the people who don't support my show and what I believe, but support my right to share those beliefs anyway. People who I never would have imagined, like Ben Shapiro, Clay Travis, Candace Owens, Mitch McConnell, Rand Paul, even my old pal Ted Cruz," Kimmel said.

On Monday, Disney announced "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" would return to ABC's lineup after "thoughtful conversations with Jim

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