ABC Suspends Late-Night Program
ABC announced on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, the indefinite suspension of its popular late-night talk show, 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' The network's decision came in the wake of controversial comments made by host Jimmy Kimmel concerning the recent killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. An ABC spokesperson stated that the show would be 'pre-empted indefinitely,' with no immediate indication of a return date.
Kimmel's Remarks Spark Controversy
The suspension directly followed remarks made by Jimmy Kimmel during his monologues on Monday, September 15, and Tuesday, September 16, 2025. On his show, Kimmel accused 'MAGA-land' of attempting to capitalize on Charlie Kirk's murder and mischaracterize the individual responsible for the killing. He stated, 'Many in Maga-land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk.' Kimmel also criticized Vice President JD Vance for allegedly blaming the left for Kirk's death without evidence.
Network and Affiliate Actions
ABC's decision to suspend 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' was made shortly after Nexstar Media Group, one of the largest owners of television stations in the United States with numerous ABC affiliates, announced its intention to preempt the show. Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar's broadcasting division, issued a statement calling Kimmel's comments 'offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse.' Alford added that 'Continuing to give Mr Kimmel a broadcast platform in the communities we serve is simply not in the public interest at the current time.' The FCC chair also reportedly threatened to revoke broadcasters' licenses following the comments.
Context of Charlie Kirk's Death
The controversy stems from the killing of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, who was shot and killed on September 10, 2025, at Utah Valley University while on a speaking tour. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, has been charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and witness tampering, with prosecutors indicating they will seek the death penalty. Kirk, 31, was known for his efforts to rally conservative support among young people and was a vocal ally of former President Donald Trump.
Uncertain Future for 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'
As of the suspension, Jimmy Kimmel has not yet issued a public statement regarding the network's decision or the backlash to his comments. The indefinite nature of the suspension leaves the future of the long-running late-night program uncertain.
5 Comments
BuggaBoom
ABC made the right call. No room for that kind of rhetoric.
Loubianka
While Kimmel's remarks were undeniably provocative and poorly timed, an indefinite suspension seems like an extreme measure. It raises questions about media independence versus political pressure.
Noir Black
This is censorship, plain and simple. Shame on ABC!
Leonardo
The network has a right to manage its brand and content, and Kimmel's comments were indeed inflammatory. Still, seeing a show suspended over political commentary, however controversial, is a worrying trend for artistic freedom.
Donatello
Kimmel was just speaking his mind. This is an overreaction.