Jimmy Kimmel's program faces cancellation but garners backing, with the defense that it promotes free speech, not hate speech.
In a shocking turn of events, ABC has cancelled Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show following a controversial comment made about Charlie Kirk, a conservative commentator who was tragically murdered on September 10.
The comment, which has sparked widespread debate, led Jimmy Kimmel to gain Italian citizenship in protest. Some, like Jean Smart, have defended Kimmel, stating that his comment was an exercise of free speech, not hate speech. However, others, including FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr and Donald Trump, have condemned Kimmel's remarks.
Prominent figures from both sides of the political spectrum have weighed in on the issue. Former US President Barack Obama criticised the Trump administration for escalating 'cancel culture' to a dangerous level, citing the Kimmel suspension as an example of increasing authoritarianism in the US. On the other hand, Trump welcomed the suspension and called for the removal of other shows critical of him.
The suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' has sparked concern among many, with Alison Brie describing the decision as 'surreal and terrifying.' Michael Kosta, host of 'The Daily Show,' posted on his Instagram stories that this is a grave moment in U.S. history and television networks must stand up. SAG-AFTRA, the union representing actors, emphasised the importance of free speech, stating that society 'depends on free speech.'
Chuck Schumer, leader of the Democratic minority in the U.S. Senate, suggested that what happened should go to court. Schumer, a staunch advocate for free speech, considers the incident as a threat to democracy and urged everyone to raise their voice to stop what's happening to Jimmy Kimmel. Gavin Newsom, California Governor, also expressed his disapproval, stating that the cancellation is 'censoring the public in real-time.'
The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada described the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel's show as 'state censorship.' Mike Birbiglia, a fellow comedian, called on his peers to criticise the suspension, urging them to stand up for free speech. Ben Stiller, in a brief statement, simply expressed his disapproval with the situation, stating, 'This is not right.'
Jean Smart, a co-star of Jimmy Kimmel, also expressed her disapproval of ABC's decision to remove him from their lineup. The Republican Party, according to Gavin Newsom, does not believe in free speech, a claim that has sparked further debate in the ongoing controversy.
The incident remains a topic of intense discussion, with many questioning the role of free speech in modern media and politics. As the situation unfolds, it is clear that the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show has sparked a significant debate about the boundaries of free speech and the implications of censorship in the United States.
Read also:
- Mohammad Yousuf publically labeled Suryakumar Yadav as a "pig," an unusual slur Yousuf explained.
- Today's most impactful photographic moments
- Support for Eric Adams in The Post's Letters to the Editor on August 13, 2025
- Roosting Shark and Rambunctious Red Squirrels: Unconventional House Rental in Yorkshire Involving Aquatic Marvel, Squirrely Mayhem, and Mystical Planning Regulations
