ABC under Criticism: Ben Stiller, Chris Hayes, Governor Newsom, among others, voice disapproval of ABC for canceling Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show due to comments made about Charlie Kirk
In a surprising turn of events, Disney's ABC has indefinitely pulled the late-night program 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' from its schedule, sparking a heated debate about free speech and political censorship. The decision came after Nexstar Media strongly objected to Jimmy Kimmel's comments on a specific topic during Monday's broadcast. Kimmel's monologue, which included remarks about the suspected shooter of Kirk and the 'MAGA gang,' seems to be the catalyst for the controversy. Chris Hayes, an MSNBC host, described the situation as the most straightforward attack on free people's speech from state actors he's ever seen in his life. Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker echoed Hayes' sentiments, labeling the decision to pull Kimmel as intimidation from the Trump administration and a targeting of individuals who criticize the administration. California Governor Gavin Newsom accused the Republican Party of not believing in free speech, while Conan O'Brien, a former late-night host, criticized the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel and the promise to silence other late-night hosts for criticizing the administration. Wanda Sykes, a guest on the show, posted a video on Instagram expressing support for Jimmy Kimmel and criticizing the Trump administration. Mike Birbiglia called for fellow comedians to stand up for Kimmel following ABC's decision. Jean Smart, a star from the show 'Hacks', expressed her horror at the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel Live. Ben Stiller also expressed his disapproval of the decision. The objection led to Nexstar Media vowing to pre-empt airings of the program. Federal Communications Commission chairman Brendan Carr threatened to take action against ABC before Kimmel was pulled from the air, and later released a statement thanking Nexstar for 'doing the right thing.' However, some argue that the hypocrisy lies in the fact that while Kimmel is being censored for his comments, Fox commentator Brian Kilmeade's comments about killing homeless people are allowed to remain unchallenged. Paul Scheer wrote on Threads that it's hypocritical for Kimmel to be off the air for his comments, while Kilmeade's remarks are tolerated. The controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel Live! has ignited a fiery debate about the boundaries of free speech, particularly in the context of political commentary. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will impact the future of late-night television and the broader discussion on free speech in America.
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