Comedian and television host Sheryl Underwood is urging Americans to embrace forgiveness and open dialogue. Her comments follow late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s recent remarks that sparked debate about free speech after his show was briefly taken off air. Speaking to CNN, Underwood reflected on the significance of Kimmel’s public comments and what they represent in a moment of national tension.

“That Jimmy [Kimmel] made us proud as comedians, as Americans,” Underwood said in an interview with CNN. “First of all, if they had had that conversation earlier, we could have gotten to the grace and the healing.”

Underwood called on audiences to live out the principles they claim to hold. “So if everybody is hollering about being a Christian, why don’t you really act like being a Christian and give people forgiveness?” she added.

She also emphasized the importance of unity beyond partisan lines, a perspective she believes is essential for the country’s future. “I'm a Republican. I don't want Democrats to fail. I don't want Independents to fail. I want people to come together, have a dialogue, and truly make this country better,” Underwood said.

Her praise for Kimmel’s comments underscored her call for civility. “And when Jimmy Kimmel got up last night and he talked about what he did not mean to do, it showed more grace and more humanity than all the people that are involved,” she said, noting that moments like these could help move the national conversation forward.

Underwood’s remarks highlight growing call among politicians and even celebrities for reconciliation and meaningful dialogue, as Americans continue to wrestle with political tumult.