Los Angeles, September 18, 2025
News Summary
ABC’s late-night show ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ will be preempted indefinitely due to backlash faced from host Jimmy Kimmel’s comments regarding Charlie Kirk’s death. Nexstar Media Group, which owns numerous ABC stations, pushed for the show’s suspension, labeling the remarks as offensive and insensitive. The situation raises questions about free speech and the role of media in political discourse as Kimmel’s suspension could also have financial repercussions for ABC and ignites discussions regarding the boundaries of commentary in entertainment.
Los Angeles – ABC has announced that the late-night talk show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will be “preempted indefinitely” amid significant backlash following controversial comments made by host Jimmy Kimmel about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death. The decision was primarily influenced by Nexstar Media Group, which threatened to remove the show from its ABC-affiliated stations due to the remarks.
Nexstar holds ownership over 32 ABC stations, which makes it one of the largest operators of local TV stations in the United States. Following Kimmel’s comments, Nexstar decided to replace the show with alternative programming for the foreseeable future. The controversy stems from Kimmel’s suggestion that the alleged shooter of Charlie Kirk was linked with the “MAGA gang,” insinuating that they were attempting to gain political leverage from Kirk’s tragic death.
Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on September 10 during an event at Utah Valley University. His death has triggered considerable discourse surrounding political violence and its representation in media. Nexstar President Andrew Alford criticized Kimmel’s remarks, describing them as “offensive and insensitive,” claiming they do not reflect community values.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr has expressed concern that Kimmel’s comments could jeopardize ABC’s broadcasting license. He emphasized the importance of broadcasters serving the public interest and commended Nexstar for their proactive decision regarding the show.
Although Kimmel was reportedly ready to address the backlash in his next episode, he did not intend to apologize for his comments. This incident has ignited discussions about free speech within the current media climate, with critics arguing for the potential censorship implications of the suspension.
The backlash against Kimmel’s comments has drawn attention to the ongoing scrutiny that late-night programs have faced, particularly in recent years. Increasing pressure from political figures regarding controversial commentary has become more pronounced, with Kimmel’s situation paralleling the past cancellation of Bill Maher’s “Politically Incorrect” in 2002. That cancellation occurred in response to heated comments made shortly after the 9/11 attacks.
The suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” may also have financial implications for ABC. The show has generated approximately $76.6 million in advertising revenue for the network in 2024, making its indefinite suspension a concerning development for the company’s financial outlook.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, the incident reflects broader tensions within American media and entertainment regarding political commentary and public sentiment. Various free speech advocates and unions have criticized the decision to suspend Kimmel’s show, framing it as a potential form of censorship, while some political figures, including President Donald Trump, have praised ABC’s response.
Overall, the situation has sparked important conversations about the boundaries of free expression in entertainment and the responsibilities of public broadcasters in addressing sensitive topics.
FAQs
Why has “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” been suspended?
ABC announced that “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will be “preempted indefinitely” following backlash from Nexstar Media Group, which threatened to pull the show from its ABC-affiliated stations due to Kimmel’s remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
What did Kimmel say about Charlie Kirk’s death?
Kimmel suggested that the alleged shooter of Charlie Kirk was associated with the “MAGA gang,” stating they were trying to score political points from Kirk’s death.
What was the response of the FCC Chairman?
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr suggested that ABC’s broadcast license could be at risk due to Kimmel’s comments and thanked Nexstar for their decision, calling it important for broadcasters to serve the public interest.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Show | Jimmy Kimmel Live! |
| Network | ABC |
| Owner of ABC Stations | Nexstar Media Group (32 stations) |
| Controversial Comments | Kimmel suggested shooter was associated with “MAGA gang” |
| Date of Kirk’s Death | September 10 |
| Financial Impact | $76.6 million in advertising revenue for 2024 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Hollywood Reporter: ABC Suspends Jimmy Kimmel Live
- Variety: Nexstar Pulls Kimmel’s Show
- Deadline: Kimmel’s Show Indefinitely Off ABC
- CNBC: Kimmel’s Comments Draw Backlash
- USA Today: Kimmel Fired Over Comments
- Wikipedia: Charlie Kirk
- Google Search: Jimmy Kimmel Live Suspension
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Free Speech
- Google News: Jimmy Kimmel Live
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