Disney CEO Bob Iger Finds Himself Involved in Cultural Conflicts at Odds with Kimmel's Preferences
In the world of late-night television, the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has caused a stir. The decision, enforced by ABC News itself, has been met with criticism from various quarters, including Disney Plus studio and corporate staff, who view it as an overreaction.
The context of this suspension, according to Gabriel Rossman, a sociology professor at UCLA, should be viewed in light of the declining business model of late-night talk, audience fragmentation, cord-cutting, and aggressive threats to broadcasting licenses. The backdrop is the turbulent landscape of the media industry, where traditional broadcasting models are under pressure.
The controversy stems from comments made by Kimmel about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which led to a firestorm of criticism. This has drawn rebukes from free-speech advocates, entertainers, and supporters in the creative community. Protests have occurred outside Disney's headquarters and at the theater where Jimmy Kimmel Live! is taped.
Notable figures in the industry have expressed their disapproval. David Letterman, a former late-night host, criticized Disney for firing Jimmy Kimmel due to fear of an "authoritarian criminal administration." Former Disney CEO, Michael Eisner, has also voiced his disapproval of the situation.
In the political arena, Trump and his top telecommunications regulator threatened ABC News stations, saying they could lose their broadcast licenses. Sinclair Inc., the largest owner of local TV stations affiliated with ABC News, has called on Kimmel to apologize and donate to Charlie Kirk's family.
Negotiations between Kimmel and Disney/ABC for a possible return are ongoing but uncertain. Kimmel has been reluctant to issue an apology, believing he didn't say anything that would require it. The company has discussed the show's future with Kimmel, and there are reports of a potential resolution in the works.
The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show also comes amidst allegations of Disney Plus scaling back diversity policies, removing a transgender storyline from a cartoon, and scrubbing a character's queer identity from a kids movie. These actions have raised concerns about the company's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
In the corporate realm, Bob Iger, who has been CEO of Walt Disney Co. since 2022, has faced criticism for his handling of the situation. In 2023, Iger expressed concern about ideology creeping into movies and TV shows at Disney's annual meeting. Dana Walden, Disney TV chief, is competing to succeed Bob Iger as CEO.
In August 2024, Bob Iger expressed concern during talks with fellow CEOs about potential government interference with Disney Plus operations. The ongoing saga between Jimmy Kimmel and Disney/ABC serves as a testament to the complexities and challenges faced by the media industry in the digital age.
Meanwhile, support for Kimmel remains strong. A petition with 57,000 signatures supports Jimmy Kimmel's reinstatement on Change.org. Some individuals on Reddit are posting instructions on how to cancel Disney Plus streaming services as a form of protest.
As the situation unfolds, the future of Jimmy Kimmel Live! and the broader implications for freedom of speech and creative expression in the media industry remain topics of intense discussion and debate.
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