ABC stations planning to air a Charlie Kirk tribute special, displacing Jimmy Kimmel's regular broadcast.
In a series of unexpected events, late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel has found himself at the centre of a heated controversy following his comments about the alleged assassin of Turning Point USA co-founder Charlie Kirk. Disney, the network that airs 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', has indefinitely pre-empted the show on its stations, a decision that has sparked a wave of reactions across the media landscape. Nexstar Media Group, another owner of ABC affiliates, has followed suit, pre-empting the show on its stations as well.
The controversy stemmed from Kimmel's apparent suggestion that the killer was a supporter of the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement. This remark led to a barrage of criticism, with some accusing Kimmel of mischaracterising the suspect. However, some of Kimmel's defenders argue that he was taken out of context.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman, Brendan Carr, issued a threat against Disney if it didn't address the controversy. This was followed by Rep. Daniel Goldman, D-N.Y., expressing outrage over Disney's decision, stating it was a violation of the Constitution and a sacrifice of values.
The 22-year-old suspect, Tyler Robinson, faces murder charges in connection with Kirk's death. Prosecutors have reaffirmed ties between Robinson and conservative ideologies in Tuesday's indictment.
Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates 30 ABC affiliates, has come under criticism for airing right-leaning content. In response, they have decided to air a tribute special for Charlie Kirk in Jimmy Kimmel's vacant time slot on Friday. Sinclair Broadcast Group is also demanding an apology from Jimmy Kimmel, a personal donation to the Kirk family, and a donation to Turning Point USA.
The FCC Chair, Carr, has levied a threat against ABC and Disney after Kimmel spoke about the murder of Charlie Kirk, suggesting a MAGA supporter could be responsible. Kimmel had planned to address the backlash on his show, but Disney made the decision to pre-empt his show instead.
The decision to pre-empt 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' has received support from President Donald Trump and his supporters. However, some on the right have questioned whether Disney's decision was the result of government overreach.
Dozens of ABC affiliate stations will air the tribute special for Charlie Kirk in Jimmy Kimmel's time slot on Friday. Sinclair Broadcast Group will not lift the suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' until formal discussions are held with ABC regarding the network's commitment to professionalism and accountability.
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