Cancellation Controversy: Jimmy Kimmel Suspended Over Charlie Kirk Remarks

Thu Sep 18 2025 09:28:15 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

ABC's Jimmy Kimmel has been suspended indefinitely following controversial comments regarding the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The decision has sparked debate over freedom of speech and censorship in media.

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has been pulled off the air indefinitely by ABC after making contentious remarks about the murder of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk during his show. Kimmel criticized how some individuals were seeking political gain from the tragedy. The move has reignited discussions on censorship and free speech, drawing mixed reactions from fans, media organizations, and federal regulators.

ABC has pulled late-night host Jimmy Kimmel off air indefinitely over comments he made about the shooting of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk.

Jimmy Kimmel Live will be pre-empted indefinitely, a spokesperson for the Disney-owned network stated. Kimmel did not comment to the BBC as he left the television studio in Los Angeles.

Earlier this week, Kimmel addressed the incident during his show, suggesting the Maga gang was exploiting Kirk's death for political gain. A 22-year-old suspect is currently facing charges for aggravated murder in connection with the shooting of Kirk.

During his Monday monologue, Kimmel remarked: The Maga Gang desperately trying to characterise this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it. He also criticized flags flown at half-mast in honor of Kirk and mocked former President Donald Trump's response to the tragedy.

On the day of the shooting, Kimmel had sent condolences to Kirk’s family via social media.

Trump reacted to Kimmel’s suspension, posting that it was great news for America and congratulated ABC for taking decisive action.

Kimmel's comments have drawn criticism from various factions, including the chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Brendan Carr, who urged for accountability from Disney. Meanwhile, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) condemned the suspension as an attack on free speech rights.

Fans outside the studio expressed disappointment, with some protesting against perceived censorship.

The ABC announcement came shortly after Nexstar Media expressed its decision not to air Kimmel's show due to his remarks. Nexstar's president noted that the comments did not reflect the values of the local communities.

While Kimmel was not fired, reports suggest that discussions are planned regarding his future statements when he returns to air. As the late-night landscape continues to evolve with changing viewer preferences, Kimmel's situation raises critical questions about the intersection of humor, politics, and media ethics.