“Jimmy Kimmel Live! news

What’s New

1. “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Suspended Indefinitely
   ABC has pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air indefinitely after Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks about the killing of Charlie Kirk caused widespread backlash. AP News+2Reuters+2

2. Nexstar and Sinclair Pull the Show

   • Nexstar Media Group decided to stop airing the show on all its ABC affiliate stations, calling Kimmel’s comments “offensive and insensitive” during a sensitive moment in national politics. Reuters+2Reuters+2

   • Sinclair Broadcast Group has similarly removed the show and said it will only consider airing it again if Kimmel issues an apology and takes other accountability steps. EW.com+1

3. FCC Chair Steps in
   Brendan Carr, the chair of the FCC, has warned ABC that Kimmel’s comments may violate requirements for broadcasters (especially in terms of “public interest” obligations) and has urged local stations to stop airing the show. Reuters+2Reuters+2

4. Donald Trump’s Reaction
   Trump praised ABC’s decision to remove the show, calling Kimmel’s comment “a horrible thing” and has also criticized Kimmel’s talent and ratings. Reuters+1

5. Free Speech Debate
   Many in media, entertainment, and advocacy circles are criticizing the removal. Notable voices like Stephen Colbert have called it “blatant censorship.” They argue that pulling the show because of critical remarks — even if controversial or polarizing — is dangerous for free speech. People.com+1

What Exactly Kimmel Said (Triggering the Backlash)

• Kimmel suggested that many in MAGA were trying to politicize Charlie Kirk’s death and distance themselves from the person who killed him while still benefiting from the incident. Reuters+2AP News+2

• He implied that conservatives were trying to spin the narrative to avoid responsibility or uncomfortable associations. Reuters

Why It’s a Big Deal

• Media Pressure & Regulatory Fear: The FCC’s involvement has added weight to the affiliate groups’ decisions. Broadcasters are clearly concerned about regulatory consequences (fines, license issues) if they are seen as violating public interest standards. Reuters+1

• Affiliate Power: Stations owned by Nexstar and Sinclair have shown that local affiliates can force a show off-air, even if a network (ABC/Disney) wants to continue. This shows affiliates have real leverage. AP News+1

• National Political Polarization: The issue underscores how political violence (in this case, the assassination of Charlie Kirk) is feeding into a culture war over what’s acceptable criticism, what’s considered disrespect, and what counts as responsible speech