Broadcast network ABC halts "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" indefinitely due to comments made concerning the demise of political activist Charlie Kirk
In a series of recent events, late-night television host Jimmy Kimmel has found himself at the centre of controversy. The shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10 has received widespread attention, and Kimmel's comments about the incident have sparked debate.
During his Monday monologue, Kimmel referred to the 'MAGA gang,' a group he has mentioned in his comments about the shooting, and suggested that they were trying to score political points off Kirk's murder. This remark has caused controversy, with Nexstar Media Group, one of the largest owners of TV stations in the U.S., deciding to preempt airings of Kimmel's program in its ABC-affiliated markets.
The 'MAGA gang' refers to a group of people who support former President Donald Trump and his policies. Kimmel is quoted as saying on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' that the 'MAGA gang' is trying to characterize the shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, as one of them. However, the suspect has been arrested, and the shooting incident occurred during a debate at the university.
The controversy has not gone unnoticed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Chair Brendan Carr suggested that his team could take action against Disney and ABC over Kimmel's remarks. However, the name of the person who initiated the proposed action at the FCC regarding Kimmel's comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk has not been publicly disclosed.
ABC has indefinitely taken Kimmel's late-night show off its schedule, a move that has been reported by multiple sources, including CNN and Variety. The shooting of Kirk has been reported by the same sources, adding to the widespread attention the incident has received.
As the situation continues to develop, it remains to be seen what action, if any, the FCC will take against Disney and ABC. Meanwhile, Kimmel's remarks about the shooting have caused a stir, with some viewers expressing their displeasure and others defending the host's right to free speech. The incident serves as a reminder of the power of words and the impact they can have on public discourse.
