Jimmy Kimmel suspension has made headlines across the U.S. after ABC announced that its popular late-night talk show host has been taken off air indefinitely. The move follows controversial remarks Kimmel made about right-wing activist Charlie Kirk’s killing, sparking a storm of political debate, FCC involvement, and reactions from Hollywood to Washington.
ABC Confirms Jimmy Kimmel Suspension
ABC issued a statement confirming that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will be “pre-empted indefinitely.” The decision came shortly after Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr publicly threatened regulatory action against ABC and its parent company Disney.
In his Monday night monologue, Kimmel said the “Maga gang” was trying to “score political points” from Kirk’s killing. He also mocked Donald Trump’s reaction, comparing it to how “a four-year-old mourns a goldfish.”
Political Fallout and FCC Pressure
Brendan Carr, a Trump-appointed FCC chair, told conservative podcast The Benny Show that ABC could either “change conduct and take action” or face “additional work from the FCC ahead.”
The comments were quickly followed by ABC’s announcement. President Trump celebrated the move, posting that Kimmel’s show was “CANCELLED” and calling the suspension “great news for America.”
Reaction from Fans and Celebrities
Fans who had lined up outside the Hollywood studio expressed shock and frustration, calling the suspension an attack on free speech. Actor Ben Stiller posted, “This isn’t right,” while Emmy-winning actress Jean Smart said she was “horrified at the cancellation.”
The Writers Guild of America also issued a statement condemning the suspension, framing it as a violation of free speech and constitutional rights.
Debate Over Cancel Culture vs Consequences
The Jimmy Kimmel suspension reignited debate over cancel culture. Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy argued that the situation wasn’t cancel culture but “consequences for your actions.”
Democratic lawmakers pushed back, accusing Carr of abusing his authority. House Democrat leaders released a statement saying Carr had “disgraced the office he holds by bullying ABC” and called for his resignation.
TV Affiliates and Industry Impact
The backlash extended to local broadcasters. Nexstar Media, one of the largest TV station groups in the U.S., said it would stop airing Jimmy Kimmel Live! for the foreseeable future, calling Kimmel’s comments “offensive and insensitive.” Sinclair, another major ABC affiliate, announced plans to air a special program honoring Charlie Kirk in place of Kimmel’s show.
This comes amid wider shake-ups in late-night TV, with CBS announcing that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will end next year as more viewers shift toward streaming platforms.
What’s Next for Jimmy Kimmel
A source close to the situation told CNBC that Kimmel has not been fired and that ABC executives intend to meet with him before he returns to air. It remains unclear if Kimmel will issue a public apology.
As one of the most recognizable late-night hosts, Kimmel’s future will likely depend on how audiences, advertisers, and political pressure shape ABC’s next move. For now, the Jimmy Kimmel suspension is a flashpoint in the ongoing battle over media, politics, and free speech.
Source: BBC News
