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ABC pulls late-night show following host’s remarks on Charlie Kirk’s assassination, sparking nationwide protests and free speech debate
Los Angeles, Sept. 18, 2025 — In a stunning move that has rocked the entertainment and political spheres, ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! following controversial remarks made by the host about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Kimmel, known for his biting satire and political commentary, criticized the response from Trump supporters during his Sept. 15 monologue, accusing them of “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them”. The backlash was swift. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, appointed by President Donald Trump, publicly condemned the comments, warning ABC and its affiliates of potential regulatory consequences.
Major broadcasters including Nexstar and Sinclair quickly announced they would stop airing the show. ABC followed suit, citing “problematic comments” and mounting pressure from both political and corporate stakeholders.
Industry Fallout and Public Outcry
The suspension has ignited fierce debate over censorship and free speech. Hundreds of writers, actors, and fans gathered outside Disney’s headquarters in protest, waving signs like “ABC Bends the Knee to Fascism” and “Resist Corporate Cowardice”. The Writers Guild of America issued a scathing statement defending Kimmel and condemning what it called “acts of corporate cowardice”.
Late-night peers Jon Stewart, Seth Meyers, and Stephen Colbert have rallied behind Kimmel, using their platforms to mock the administration’s stance and warn of a chilling effect on political satire.
Disney Faces Boycott Threats
The controversy has triggered a wave of subscription cancellations across Disney+ and Hulu, with hashtags like #CancelDisney and #DouseTheMouse trending on social media. Critics argue that Disney’s decision prioritizes ratings and political appeasement over artistic integrity and constitutional rights.
President Trump, meanwhile, dismissed the uproar, claiming Kimmel was suspended due to “bad ratings” and “lack of talent” rather than political pressure.
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