ABC removes Jimmy Kimmel from broadcast following his remarks about the death of Charlie Kirk
In a surprising turn of events, ABC has announced an indefinite hiatus for 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' following the comedian's controversial comments about the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates several ABC stations around the country, has replaced Kimmel's show on Friday with a tribute to Kirk.
The controversy began when Kimmel made fun of President Trump's response to Kirk's murder during his monologue on Monday. This move has sparked a wave of criticism, with the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, Brendan Carr, threatening federal action against ABC affiliates who carried the show.
The Writers Guild of America has opposed anyone who uses their power and influence to 'silence the voices of writers or anyone who speaks in dissent.' They emphasised that the right to speak our minds and to disagree with each other is at the very heart of what it means to be a free people. SAG-AFTRA and the Musicians Union have also sent letters of support to Kimmel.
However, President Trump congratulated ABC for pulling the show, following his earlier warning that Kimmel was next. Trump was among those who were upset by Kimmel's comments about Kirk's murder, which also upset many others across the country.
NPR has reached out to Kimmel and his show but has not yet heard back. California Gov. Gavin Newsom, comedians, actors, and free speech organisations are denouncing the suspension of Kimmel's show as censorship.
Meanwhile, Nexstar, which operates 32 ABC stations around the country, is seeking FCC approval for a $6.2 billion dollar merger. The other major television station operator that has suspended or stopped broadcasting Jimmy Kimmel Live! is ABC, which announced the show will no longer be aired 'in the foreseeable future' due to Kimmel's comments.
Sinclair Broadcast Group has called upon Kimmel to issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and make a meaningful personal donation to Turning Point USA. Kimmel had previously posted a message on Instagram sending love to the Kirk family and victims of gun violence on the day of the murder.
This situation has ignited a heated debate about free speech, censorship, and the role of comedians in politics. The future of Jimmy Kimmel Live! remains uncertain, with many questioning whether this is a case of censorship or a consequence of controversial remarks.
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