David Letterman expresses disagreement with Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, saying it's not the usual procedure.
In a move that has sparked debate and criticism, ABC News has announced the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show. The decision, made in response to comments Kimmel made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, has drawn criticism from many, including David Letterman and other prominent figures in the late-night television scene.
Letterman, who spent more than three decades as a late-night host on CBS and NBC, called ABC News's decision 'a misery' and 'ridiculous.' He accused the network of succumbing to political pressure, stating that 'you can't go around firing somebody because you're fearful or trying to suck up to an authoritarian, a criminal administration in the Oval Office.'
The suspension has also drawn accusations of censorship and political pressure from liberals. Some argue that ABC News is bowing to conservative pressure, led by Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, who criticized Kimmel's comments about Kirk's death and pressured ABC News and local broadcasters to take action against Kimmel's show. Carr even threatened additional regulatory measures and possible license revocations if no action was taken.
However, Carr was not alone in his criticism. A group of conservatives accused Kimmel of misrepresenting the political beliefs of the man accused in Kirk's assassination.
Not all late-night hosts have sided with ABC News's decision. Many, including Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart, have shown support for each other in recent months. Stewart, in a rare Thursday night appearance on 'The Daily Show,' is expected to express his solidarity with Kimmel.
Jimmy Fallon, who was scheduled to appear at a conference on Thursday, has bowed out, potentially in a show of support for Kimmel. Meanwhile, Jude Law and journalist Tom Llamas are listed as guests on 'The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon' for Thursday.
In a light-hearted moment, Letterman joked that he had been 'smart enough to cancel himself.' Meanwhile, Maria Ressa, the author of 'How to Stand Up to a Dictator,' will be a guest on 'The Daily Show.'
As the controversy continues to unfold, the future of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: the debate over freedom of speech and political pressure in the media is far from over.
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