Highlights:
- ABC suspends Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely after the host’s comments about Charlie Kirk’s killing.
- Nexstar Communications pulls the show from 23 ABC affiliates, calling remarks “offensive and insensitive.”
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr criticizes Kimmel’s comments, citing potential misinformation.
- The decision sparks reactions from former President Donald Trump and free speech advocates.
ABC suspends Kimmel
ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! following remarks the late-night host made about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension took effect Wednesday, after several ABC-affiliated stations, including Nexstar Communications Group, announced they would not air the program.
Nexstar, which operates 23 ABC affiliates, described Kimmel’s comments as “offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse,” according to Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar’s broadcasting division. ABC did not provide a formal reason for the preemption.
Kimmel departed his Hollywood studio as protesters gathered outside. There was no immediate comment from the host, whose contract with ABC runs through May 2026.
Comments that sparked controversy
On Jimmy Kimmel Live! Monday and Tuesday nights, Kimmel suggested that some in the conservative movement were trying to politicize Kirk’s assassination. He stated that “many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk” and implied that Kirk’s alleged killer, Tyler Robinson, might be politically aligned with Trump supporters.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr described the comments as “truly sick” and indicated that the agency has a strong case for holding Kimmel, ABC, and Walt Disney Co. accountable for spreading misinformation. Carr claimed Kimmel appeared to deliberately mislead the public about the killer’s political orientation.
Authorities report that Robinson, 22, grew up in a conservative household but had shifted politically left and identified as pro-LGBTQ rights. Robinson told investigators he targeted Kirk due to perceived hatred. His voter registration is inactive.
Political and industry reactions
Former President Donald Trump praised ABC’s decision on Truth Social, writing: “Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done.” Trump has also previously commented on other late-night hosts, including Stephen Colbert, as part of a broader pattern of political commentary.
FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez criticized the administration’s involvement, warning against government pressure on lawful expression. Free speech advocates, including Ari Cohn of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, echoed concerns over the chilling effect on media.
Impact on viewers and broadcast operations
Kimmel’s recent monologues included criticism of Trump’s response to Kirk’s deathGetty Images
Audience members lined up outside Kimmel’s Hollywood studio were turned away after ABC announced the suspension. One attendee described being informed of the cancellation just as the show was about to start, without further explanation.
Kimmel’s recent monologues included criticism of Trump’s response to Kirk’s death, commentary on FBI chief Kash Patel, and remarks about Vice President JD Vance’s hosting of Kirk’s podcast. These statements, coupled with the political climate, have intensified scrutiny on the network and late-night programming.
Broader implications
The suspension comes amid regulatory and corporate pressures on major media companies. Disney, ABC’s parent, is seeking approval for ESPN’s acquisition of the NFL Network, while Nexstar is pursuing regulatory clearance for its $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna. Analysts suggest that reinstating Kimmel could create political and regulatory complications for both companies.
