ABC Suspends Jimmy Kimmel Live! Indefinitely After Charlie Kirk Remarks

Lead ABC announced on Wednesday that it will indefinitely suspend airing “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following host Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial comments on the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk during Monday’s monologue.

Nut Graf The decision underscores escalating tensions between broadcasters and regulators over perceived political bias in late-night television. In an era of heightened scrutiny from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and affiliate operators, networks face mounting pressure to police commentary that may inflame partisan divides.

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Network Preemption ABC, owned by Walt Disney Co., confirmed that it will halt broadcasts of the late-night talk show across its affiliates starting Sept. 17. The move follows Nexstar Media Group’s announcement that it would preempt Kimmel’s program on its 32 ABC stations, citing offense taken at his characterization of the alleged shooter as politically motivated to score points.

Regulatory Pressure Earlier on Wednesday, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr-an appointee aligned with former President Trump-threatened potential action against Disney and ABC, suggesting that revoking affiliate licenses could compel the network to discipline Kimmel. Carr criticized the host’s remarks as “the sickest conduct possible” and warned broadcasters to uphold their public-interest obligations.

Host’s Comments During his Sept. 15 monologue, Kimmel speculated that Tyler Robinson, accused of killing Kirk on Sept. 10 at Utah Valley University, might have been affiliated with “MAGA” supporters seeking to deflect blame. The remarks prompted widespread backlash from conservative figures and advocacy groups, intensifying calls for accountability.

Industry Repercussions

• Nexstar’s statement emphasized that continuing to air Kimmel would not serve the “public interest,” and announced alternative programming in its ABC markets.
• Other major operators are reportedly reviewing their scheduling decisions in light of FCC scrutiny.
• This suspension follows similar network actions against hosts whose on-air commentary sparked controversy, highlighting the fragile equilibrium between editorial freedom and corporate risk management.

Historical Context “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” debuted in January 2003 and has weathered prior controversies tied to political satire. However, the current preemption marks an unprecedented instance of coordinated regulatory and affiliate pressure leading to a blanket suspension of a flagship late-night program.

As the dispute unfolds, ABC has declined further comment, and Kimmel’s representatives have yet to issue a formal response.