ABC Pulls Late-Night Show Following Controversy
ABC announced on Wednesday that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will be suspended indefinitely after criticism over remarks Kimmel made about the man accused of fatally shooting conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The decision, made by Disney executives Robert Iger and Dana Walden, came just hours after Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr condemned the host and suggested potential regulatory action against the network.
The Remarks That Sparked Backlash
In his Monday night monologue, Kimmel said:
“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.”
Conservatives pushed back, saying Kimmel misrepresented the political views of the suspect, Tyler Robinson. Prosecutors noted Robinson had expressed opposition to Kirk’s beliefs, while his family said he had recently shifted toward progressive positions, including support for gay and transgender rights.
FCC Pressure and Network Response
Carr accused Kimmel of misleading viewers and hinted that the FCC could intervene. On a podcast, Carr said broadcasters had the option to “change conduct and take action on Kimmel” or face further scrutiny.
Later that day, Nexstar, which owns ABC affiliates across the U.S., said it would stop airing Jimmy Kimmel Live! “for the foreseeable future.” Sinclair, another major broadcaster, also suspended the show and urged Kimmel to issue a public apology and donation to Kirk’s family.
Political Reactions Split
President Donald Trump, traveling in Britain, praised the suspension as “great news for America.” Democratic leaders sharply criticized the move, with Senator Chuck Schumer calling it an attack on free speech and likening it to censorship in authoritarian states.
The White House has repeatedly clashed with major networks. Trump previously sued ABC in a case settled for $16 million, and this week filed a separate defamation lawsuit against The New York Times.
Broader Media Impact
The controversy comes as networks face heightened scrutiny from the administration. CBS recently announced the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, officially citing financial reasons, though many speculated the decision was tied to regulatory approval of a Paramount merger.
Industry observers see the suspension of Kimmel’s show as a turning point in the relationship between federal regulators, broadcasters, and political pressure.
Related Coverage
National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
About the Author
