Inside Disney’s Abrupt Decision to Suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s ABC Show
ABC, owned by Disney, abruptly suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Wednesday after the host made controversial remarks about the investigation into Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer. The decision followed public pressure from Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, who called Kimmel’s comments “the sickest conduct possible,” and hinted at possible license revocation for ABC affiliates.
Crowds quickly gathered outside Disney’s Burbank studios on Thursday to protest what critics call blatant censorship. Kimmel has not yet issued a statement.
Colbert, Stewart, and Other Late-Night Hosts Rally Behind Kimmel
Stephen Colbert used his Thursday night monologue to throw his full support behind Kimmel and his staff:
“Jimmy, I stand with you and your staff 100%… Tonight, we are all Jimmy Kimmel.”
Jon Stewart, who made a rare Thursday appearance on The Daily Show, also defended Kimmel, mocking government overreach while skewering Trump with satire:
“You may call it ‘free speech’ in Jolly Old England, but in America we have a little something called the First Amendment.”
NBC hosts Seth Meyers and Jimmy Fallon also addressed the controversy, with Fallon calling Kimmel “a decent, funny, and loving guy” and Meyers jokingly crediting any negative remarks about Trump to “AI.”
Trump Escalates Free Speech Fight
Former President Donald Trump praised ABC’s suspension of Kimmel, suggesting networks should face stricter license requirements if they broadcast unfavorable coverage of him.
“I won all seven swing states, popular vote, I won everything… and they’re 97% against. Maybe their license should be taken away.”
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said he would endorse FCC actions against ABC affiliates, handing discretion to Brendan Carr, who has been vocal in criticizing Kimmel.
A Flashpoint for Free Speech
The Jimmy Kimmel suspension has turned into a flashpoint in America’s ongoing free speech debate. Critics argue the FCC is overstepping by pressuring networks into punishing political speech, while supporters of Trump and Carr claim Kimmel crossed a line.
As Kimmel remains off the air, the clash between entertainment, politics, and free expression continues to escalate.
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