ABC has put Jimmy Kimmel Live! on hold indefinitely because host Jimmy Kimmel made controversial comments about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. During his Monday night monologue, Kimmel criticized how some politicians reacted to the tragedy, which caused public and regulatory backlash.
Brendan Carr, the chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), spoke out against Kimmel’s comments and warned that stations that keep airing the show could face consequences. Nexstar Media Group, a major broadcaster of ABC-affiliated stations, also announced it would no longer air the show “for the foreseeable future.” Later, ABC said that the show would be put on hold for an unknown amount of time.
The entertainment industry has strongly criticized the decision. Wanda Sykes, a comedian who was supposed to be on the now-canceled episode, posted a video message saying she was worried about free speech and calling the suspension “deeply troubling.” She also said that the current political leaders are to blame for what she sees as a growing culture of censorship.
More famous people have joined the conversation. Ben Stiller said, “This isn’t right,” and Jamie Lee Curtis talked about how she felt about Charlie Kirk but questioned the suspension of Kimmel’s show. Mike Birbiglia, a comedian who once guest-hosted for Kimmel, stressed how important it is to protect comedians’ right to speak their minds, even when they disagree.
Public figures from outside entertainment have also weighed in. Journalist Megyn Kelly and actress Sophia Bush criticized the suspension as a blow to free speech. Christie Brinkley sent a message of support to Kimmel and his team, saying that laughter is important and that First Amendment rights are important.
The backlash continues to grow, underscoring the broader national debate over free expression, media accountability, and the line between criticism and censorship. ABC is still thinking about what to do with Jimmy Kimmel Live! because they don’t know how the public will react.