Last week, late-night TV show fans experienced a turmoil of emotions after receiving the news of Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension from ABC. American comedian and television host Kimmel’s controversial remarks over the killing of right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk fueled the tension, leading to his indefinite suspension.
On Monday, Sept. 15, Kimmel was hosting a regular episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, discussing everything from political commentary, jokes and observations on events occurring worldwide. During his opening monologue, he stated that the “MAGA gang” (in reference to Trump supporters) was, “Desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them” and, “Trying to score political points from it.” Speaking on Donald Trump’s reaction to the shooting and flags being flown at half mast in honor of Kirk, he added, “This is not how an adult grieves the murder of someone he calls a friend. This is how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish.” Soon after the news of Kimmel’s suspension, Trump welcomed this as “great news for America,” indicating the escalating tensions and rivalry between both men.
Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, Kimmel always had a passion for radio and comedy, as well as a natural talent for humor, leading him to develop his signature humor. He began working at radio stations at the age of 16. Despite facing consistent setbacks, Kimmel persisted in his pursuit of a career in broadcasting, leading to the start of his late-night talk shows in 2003. Once again facing another hurdle, Jimmy Kimmel remained determined to fight for his amendment rights, defended and backed by his fellow co-workers, fans and several prominent Hollywood figures. On Sept. 17, actor Ben Stiller posted a three-word reply on X stating, “This isn’t right.” Following in his footsteps, Hacks star Jean Smart wrote that she was, “Horrified at the cancellation,” on Thursday, Sept. 18. Adding to her Instagram handle, she continued, “What Jimmy said was free speech, not hate speech.” Many people across the U.S. were disappointed in the outcome of this decision, and blamed the government for this cause. The Writers Guild of America (WGA), Hollywood’s labour union, discussed that the decision was a violation of constitutional free speech rights: “Shame on those in government who forget this founding truth,” they stated.
Conversely, Brendan Carr, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission of the United States since 2025 (and appointed by Trump), had a different reaction to Kimmel’s statement. He thanked Nexstar, a media company that hosted Kimmel’s show, for “doing the right thing” after witnessing the show’s prorogation for the “foreseeable future.” Moreover, Sinclair, the largest ABC affiliate group in the US, was planning to air a remembrance program for Kirk during Kimmel’s regular show time, but had to cancel due to many threats across the nation.
After many contentious days of protests and rallies, ABC brought back Jimmy Kimmel Live!, though many media companies have continued to leave the show unavailable for viewers across the country. In his dramatic return to the airwaves last Tuesday, the host of four Academy Award and three Primetime Emmy Award ceremonies, admitted to his mistakes while continuing to defend the principle of free speech. Standing his ground, he stated that his intention was never to, “Make light of the murder of a young man.” In a remark towards the government, he added, “What’s important is that we get to live in a country that allows us to have a show like this.”
Over the course of the past few days, many civilians have started to gain concern for the future of America, as the government tries to overtake people’s rights and their lives. The thought crosses many minds day-to-day: Will this continue or will people like Kimmel continue to defend their liberty and the public?
