Washington, September 18: Walt Disney-owned ABC has suspended its flagship late-night program Jimmy Kimmel Live indefinitely, following host Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk that drew backlash from Republican leaders and federal regulators.
Kimmel, who has frequently criticized Donald Trump and his allies, sparked controversy during his Monday night monologue when he accused “the MAGA gang” of politicizing Kirk’s killing. His comments triggered a sharp response from Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr, who warned that broadcasters could face fines or even license revocation if such content was repeatedly aired.
“This is a very, very serious issue right now for Disney,” Carr said in a podcast, urging local affiliates to reconsider broadcasting the show. Soon after, Nexstar Media Group, which operates 32 ABC affiliates, announced it would pull the program. Sinclair Broadcast Group followed, vowing not to air the show unless Kimmel issued an apology and promising to run a tribute to Kirk in his slot.
ABC later confirmed the suspension, with a spokesperson stating, “Jimmy Kimmel Live will be preempted indefinitely.”
The move ignited a political firestorm. Former President Donald Trump celebrated the decision on social media, while several Democratic lawmakers denounced it as an attack on free speech. Critics said the action added to a growing pattern of suspensions, firings, and disciplinary actions against media figures and academics over comments related to Kirk’s assassination.
Charlie Kirk, 31, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead last week while speaking at a Utah university. A 22-year-old suspect has been charged with his murder, though investigators have not disclosed a motive.
Kimmel, spotted leaving the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles on Wednesday, did not comment on the controversy.
