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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Rachel Dobkin

Thousands pay tribute at Charlie Kirk vigil amid uproar over Jimmy Kimmel suspension: Live updates

Jimmy Kimmel Charlie Kirk Donald Trump Lara Trump Brendan Carr FCC Fox News Adam Schiff Conan OBrien Kayleigh McEnany

Thousands paid tribute, in person and online, to conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University’s “Vigil for Unity” Friday amid uproar over the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show.

“My prayer is tonight, as we leave, we carry forward a renewed commitment to peace to respect and to unity,” Caleb Chilcutt, a UVU student and chapter member of Kirk’s Turning Point USA organization, said at the vigil.

Also Friday, Kimmel broke his silence since having his show pulled by network ABC following comments he made about the shooting of Kirk last week.

“Wow, it’s strange times out here,” Kimmel wrote in a text responding to his friend asking how he was. “I’m being followed by a helicopter.”

The network confirmed that Kimmel’s show would be suspended “indefinitely” after he said the “MAGA gang” was trying to “score political points” from Kirk’s assassination during his Monday monologue.

Kirk’s funeral is scheduled for Sunday in Glendale, Arizona. Law enforcement is monitoring several “threats” prior to the event due to the attendance of high-profile individuals, including Donald Trump and JD Vance.

Key Points

  • In pictures: Candlelight vigil held at UVU for Charlie Kirk
  • Recap: What we know so far about Jimmy Kimmel show suspension
  • Jimmy Kimmel and Disney trying to negotiate show's return: report
  • Trump defends FCC chair amid backlash
  • Trump demands TV networks get licenses canceled over ‘97% bad’ coverage of him after ABC caves to FCC on Kimmel

Recap: Jimmy Kimmel show suspension

04:45 , Rachel Dobkin
  • ABC announced Wednesday it would suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s show “indefinitely.”
  • The decision came after Federal Communications Commission Brendan Carr put pressure on broadcasters to “take action on Kimmel” after the comedian made comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
  • "This is a very, very serious issue right now for Disney. We can do this the easy way or the hard way. These companies can find ways to take action on Kimmel or there is going to be additional work for the FCC ahead,” Carr told conservative podcaster Benny Johnson.
  • Kimmel said on his show Monday night: “We had some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and with everything they can to score political points from it.”
  • MAGA figures celebrated Kimmel’s show being pulled, with President Donald Trump saying it was “great news for America.”
  • Others have criticized ABC’s decision as a violation of free speech protections.

Watch: Stephen Colbert defends Jimmy Kimmel

12:00 , Rachel Dobkin

Stephen Colbert has defended fellow late night host Jimmy Kimmel after his show was suspended, calling the move by ABC a “blatant assault on the freedom of speech.”

Jon Stewart’s ‘obedient’ Daily Show monologue on Jimmy Kimmel lambasts Trump and the state of free speech in America

11:00 , Rachel Dobkin

Jon Stewart hosted a rare mid-week episode of The Daily Show on Thursday evening, one day after ABC suspended fellow talk show host Jimmy Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” over comments he made about the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

Stewart, introduced as a “patriotically obedient host,” performed a satirical monologue about free speech, describing his program as “fun, hilarious, administration-compliant show.”

He referred to Trump as “father” and “dear leader” as he jokingly praised the president and his recent state trip to the U.K. “If you felt a little off these past couple of days, it's probably because our great father has not been home, for father has been gracing England with his legendary warmth and radiance,” Stewart joked.

The episode comes amid public outcry over ABC’s decision to suspend Kimmel’s show. The decision was announced just hours after FCC Chair Brendan Carr said Kimmel’s remarks were “truly sick” and suggested ABC’s license could be at risk over it.

Read more from Katie Hawkinson:

Jon Stewart’s ‘obedient’ Daily Show monologue on Kimmel lambasts Trump

Where to watch Charlie Kirk's funeral

10:00 , Rachel Dobkin

A funeral for the slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk will be held in Glendale, Arizona.

The funeral will start at 11 a.m. local time, and viewers can watch on C-SPAN:

The service will also likely be livestreamed on Turning Point USA and Kirk’s platforms and broadcast on the major networks.

People are canceling their Disney subscriptions after ABC pulls Jimmy Kimmel's show

09:00 , Rachel Dobkin

People are canceling their Disney streaming subscriptions after ABC, which is owned by Disney, pulled Jimmy Kimmel’s show “indefinitely.”

David Badash, founder and editor of The New Civil Rights Movement, a news and opinion site, wrote: “Just canceled my Disney+ and HULU subscription because ABC caved to Trump's and [FCC Chairman Brendan] Carr's fascism.”

Lauren Miller, communications director for AFL-CIO, a federation of labor unions, and former staffer for Senator Elizabeth Warren, wrote: “I'm a @Disney person...I canceled my @DisneyPlus subscription today, @ABC.”

Watch: AOC condemns cancelling Kimmel and the ‘weaponization’ of Charlie Kirk’s murder to ‘attack free speech’

08:00 , Rachel Dobkin

AOC condemns cancelling Kimmel and the ‘weaponisation’ of Charlie Kirk’s murder

Holly Bishop writes:

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has condemned the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel Live and the "weaponization" of Charlie Kirk’s murder.

Addressing the House of Representatives on Friday, AOC said that Congress needs to “unite” in order to stop “an all-out assault on free speech across the country”.

She said that Donald Trump is threatening to shut down ABC and any outlets for allowing criticism of his administration.

“This is a disgusting attack on the American people and the very First Amendment rights that define us as a country,” she said, also calling out ABC for their dismissal of Kimmel, saying it is their “responsibility to refuse to embolden and participate in this corruption and escalation of censorship.”

Adam Schiff says 'attack on Jimmy Kimmel' is out of 'dictator's playbook'

07:00 , Rachel Dobkin

Senator Adam Schiff, a California Democrat, criticized ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s late show.

“The attack on Jimmy Kimmel is yet another page in the dictator's playbook,” he wrote on X Friday. “When will my more of my Republicans colleagues recognize that traveling down this road does not end well for any of us?”

The decision to pause Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” comes after the comedian made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and ally to President Donald Trump.

Kimmel has been critical of Trump, and critics have noticed the show’s suspension came after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr put pressure on broadcasters to “take action on Kimmel.”

Lara Trump said if Donald wanted to take critics off the air there would 'only be a handful' of people left on TV

06:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Donald Trump’s daughter-in-law, Lara Trump, told Fox News Thursday night if the president wanted to take his critics off the air, there would “only be a handful” of people left on TV.

Lara’s comments come after Trump suggested revoking FCC licenses from networks that largely air negative coverage of him.

Democrat explains her decision to vote for Charlie Kirk resolution

06:00 , Rachel Dobkin

Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, a Washington Democrat, explained why she voted in favor of a resolution honoring the slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

“Charlie Kirk was a human being. He was a human being with a family who loved him,” the congresswoman said Friday. “We do not need to agree with the beliefs of everyone around us, but we do need to have the courage to see clearly how our hard heartedness, callousness, or indifference towards the humanity of others around us is tearing the country apart.”

The House passed the resolution Friday with 215 Republicans and 95 Democrats backing it.

Shots fired at ABC affiliate building

05:45 , Rachel Dobkin

Shots were fired at a building housing an ABC affiliate in Sacramento, California, Friday afternoon, police say.

“We haven't had a lot of attacks on our media partners, and we'd like to keep it that way," Anthony Gamble, a public information officer for the Sacramento Police Department, told CBS Sacramento.

"This is unacceptable behavior. And so you know, to those that may have been responsible for this, and I hope you see this, we're not going to stop looking for you. This is unacceptable behavior. It's not going to be tolerated in Sacramento."

Fox News host bashes 'liberal networks' for showing more concern about Jimmy Kimmel than Charlie Kirk

05:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Fox News’ Kayleigh McEnany has bashed “liberal networks” for showing more concern about Jimmy Kimmel’s show being suspended than about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

“For all the concern about the 'the First Amendment, the First Amendment,'” McEnany told colleague Jesse Watters Friday night. “What about all the amendments that Charlie Kirk lost? Because Charlie Kirk has no amendments right now. None."

In pictures: People protest outside of Disneyland

05:15 , Rachel Dobkin

People protested outside of Disneyland in Anaheim, California, on Friday after Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show was suspended. Here are some photos:

A protester holds up a sign that reads, ‘We stand with the king of late night comedy’ (REUTERS)
Another sign reads, ‘Deport Trump’ (REUTERS)
‘Are critics illegal?’ one protester asks (REUTERS)

Trump defends FCC chair amid backlash

05:00 , Rachel Dobkin

President Donald Trump defended Federal Communications Chairman Brendan Carr Friday after he received backlash over the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show.

Trump called Carr “an incredible American patriot with courage.”

Before ABC announced its decision to suspend Kimmel’s show, Carr put pressure on broadcasters to “take action” against Kimmel after comments he made in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called for Carr to resign, and Republican Senator Ted Cruz compared him to a “mafioso.”

Fox News host warns 'no voice is safe' after Jimmy Kimmel show suspension

04:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Fox News’ Jessica Tarlov has warned “no voice is safe” after ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show following comments the comedian made about Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

“This is how the First Amendment dies—when tragedy is weaponized to justify censorship. Regulatory threats can’t be the answer to speech we don’t like. If we let this stand, no voice is safe,” she said.

Late night legend Conan O’Brien breaks silence on Jimmy Kimmel with rare political statement

04:00 , Rachel Dobkin

Late-night TV legend Conan O'Brien has broken his usual silence on politics to speak out in defense of Jimmy Kimmel after his show was suspended following comments he made in the wake of Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

"The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel and the promise to silence other late night hosts for criticizing the administration should disturb everyone on the right, left, and center. It’s wrong and anyone with a conscience knows it’s wrong," the veteran talk show host said on X Friday.

Read more from Io Dodds:

Conan O’Brien breaks silence on Jimmy Kimmel with rare political statement

In pictures: Candlelight vigil held at UVU for Charlie Kirk

03:30 , Rachel Dobkin

A candlelight vigil was held at Utah Valley University Friday night for the slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kirk was fatally shot at an event on UVU’s campus last week. Here are some photos from the vigil:

People hold up candles in tribute to Charlie Kirk (AFP via Getty Images)
Attendees grieve the loss of Kirk, who was fatally shot last week (AFP via Getty Images)
The vigil was held on Utah Valley University’s campus, where Kirk was assassinated (AFP via Getty Images)

Trump slams David Letterman after comedian defends Jimmy Kimmel

03:00 , Rachel Dobkin

President Donald Trump has slammed David Letterman as “very highly overrated” after the comedian defended late night host Jimmy Kimmel.

“Whatever happened to the very highly overrated David Letterman, whose ratings were never very good, either. He looks like hell, but at least he knew when to quit. LOSER!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social Friday night.

The president’s retort came after Lettermen, a former late night host himself, called the suspension of Kimmel’s ABC show ridiculous.

“You can’t go around firing somebody because you’re fearful or trying to suck up to an authoritarian criminal administration in the Oval Office. That’s just not how this works,” Letterman said at The Atlantic Festival Thursday..

Trump demands TV networks get licenses canceled over ‘97% bad’ coverage of him after ABC caves to FCC on Kimmel

02:30 , Rachel Dobkin

President Donald Trump on Friday said the nation’s television networks should have their broadcast licenses canceled because coverage of him is overwhelmingly negative despite his victory in last year’s presidential election.

Speaking in the Oval Office during a question-and-answer session with reporters, Trump was asked to defend his claim to be a champion of free speech in the wake of Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr’s demand that ABC affiliate stations refuse to carry Jimmy Kimmel’s late night comedy show after one of the comedian’s monologues angered Republican activists.

The network announced earlier this week that Kimmel’s show would be suspended indefinitely after two large station owners, Nexstar and Sinclair, announced that they would pre-empt the program. The two television conglomerates are attempting to merge and Carr had implied that he could block the merger unless Kimmel was benched.

Pressed on whether he still believes in the U.S. Constitution’s guarantee of freedom of speech, Trump said he is a “very strong person for free speech” but he pivoted to complaining about how news coverage and other publicity on television did not become more sycophantic towards him out of respect for his win in last year’s election.

Read more from Andrew Feinberg:

Trump demands networks lose licenses over ‘bad coverage’

Jimmy Kimmel and Disney trying to negotiate show's return: report

01:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Jimmy Kimmel and Disney are working toward reaching a deal to bring back his late night show, Variety reported, citing three people with knowledge of the matter.

ABC suspended Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” after the comedian made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Variety’s sources said, however, there is no guarantee that Kimmel and Disney will come to a compromise.

Trump says Democrats have to 'start respecting our Democracy' after voting against Charlie Kirk resolution

01:30 , Rachel Dobkin

President Donald Trump says Democrats have to “start respecting our Democracy” after voting against a resolution honoring the slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

“Just today the House Democrats voted against condemning the political assassination of Charlie Kirk,” Trump wrote on Truth Social Friday. “Democrats must start respecting our Democracy, and the Will of the Voters!”

A total of 95 Democrats joined the 215 Republicans who supported the resolution, while 58 Democrats opposed it, 38 voted “present” and 22 did not vote.

In Pictures: Writers Guild holds protest against Jimmy Kimmel suspension

01:00 , Rachel Dobkin

The Writers Guild of America East organized a protest outside ABC Studios in Manhattan on Friday, demanding the network lift its suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show. Here are some pictures from the protest:

People protest outside ABC Studios in Manhattan (Getty Images)
Protester holds up a sign that reads, “Stop Trump attacks on Free Speech” (Getty Images)
Protesters hold signs that read, “Always Be Cowards” and “WGAE for free speech” (Getty Images)

In a statement following ABC’s decision to pull Kimmel’s show “indefinitely,” the Writers Guild said, “As a Guild, we stand united in opposition to anyone who uses their power and influence to silence the voices of writers, or anyone who speaks in dissent. If free speech applied only to ideas we like, we needn't have bothered to write it into the Constitution. “

Charlie Sheen dodges question about Jimmy Kimmel in Newsmax interview

Saturday 20 September 2025 00:34 , Rachel Dobkin

Actor Charlie Sheen dodged a question about the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show in an interview with Newsmax.

“It’s tough because you want to support freedom of speech,” Sheen said on the right-wing network. “And then Benny Johnson was talking about it’s not cancel culture, it’s consequence culture.”

Sheen appeared to try to appease both sides of a free speech argument that has risen out of ABC’s decision to suspend Kimmel’s show “indefinately” following comments the comedian made in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

Federal Communications Chairman Brendan Carr put pressure on broadcasters to “take action on Kimmel” in an interview with Johnson, a conservative podcaster, Wednesday before ABC pulled his show.

In pictures: People pay respects to Charlie Kirk outside UVU vigil

Saturday 20 September 2025 00:00 , Rachel Dobkin

People paid their respects to Charlie Kirk outside a vigil on Friday for the slain conservative activist held by Utah Valley University, where Kirk was fatally shot last week. Here are some pictures:

People stand in front of a memorial for Charlie Kirk at UVU’s campus (AFP via Getty Images)
A therapist offers her services ahead of Kirk’s vigil Friday (AFP via Getty Images)
American flags are seen at Kirk’s memorial (AFP via Getty Images)

Watch: Trump slams 'terrible' reporter after asking question about free speech

Friday 19 September 2025 23:30 , Rachel Dobkin

President Donald Trump hit back at ABC’s Jonathan Karl, calling him a “terrible” reporter after he asked if free speech includes “people who are harshly critical of you?”

Turning Point member calls for 'peace' and 'unity' at Charlie Kirk vigil

Friday 19 September 2025 23:28 , Rachel Dobkin

A member of Charlie Kirk’s youth group, Turning Point USA, has called for “peace” and “unity” at a vigil for the slain conservative activist held by Utah Valley University Friday.

“My prayer is tonight, as we leave, we carry forward a renewed commitment to peace to respect and to unity because those values are what will help us move forward together,” Caleb Chilcutt, a UVU student and chapter member of Turning Point USA, said.

The vigil is expected to draw thousands and, according to the university, has “heavy” security measures in place. Kirk was fatally shot on the UVU campus last week.

UVU holds vigil with 'heavy security'

Friday 19 September 2025 23:00 , Rachel Dobkin

Utah Valley University is holding a vigil with “heavy security” after conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at a campus event last week.

UVU associate vice president Ellen Treanor said in a statement shared by KSL-TV there would be a “heavy security force” inside and outside the UCCU Center where the vigil is being held.

“Special measures include a no-bag policy, metal detectors, and controlled entry points at the arena,” Treanor said.

Bernie Sanders gives lesson on what he believes 'freedom' means

Friday 19 September 2025 22:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont, shared a video on X Friday of himself explaining what he believes “freedom” means.

“Freedom is not just saying nice things or agreeing with those in power. Freedom is not just flattering the president of the United States and telling them how great he is,” Sanders said.

He continued: “Freedom is the right to express your point of view, no matter what that may be, without government interference.”

Trump says he's 'very strong' for free speech — and then doubles down on bad coverage of him being 'illegal'

Friday 19 September 2025 22:19 , Rachel Dobkin

President Donald Trump insisted Friday he is a “very strong person for free speech,” and then he proceeded to double down on his previous statements that bad coverage of him is “illegal.”

“ They'll take a great story and they'll make it bad. See, I think that's really illegal,” he told reporters from the Oval Office, calling major networks, “members of the Democrat National Committee.”

On Thursday, Trump told reporters on Air Force One all the networks’ evening shows do is “hit on Trump,” adding, that their FCC license means “they’re not allowed to do that.”

Full story: AOC rips Charlie Kirk as ‘ignorant’ and ABC over Kimmel as House passes tribute with 95 Democrats voting ‘yes’

Friday 19 September 2025 22:00 , Rachel Dobkin

The House of Representatives on Friday passed a non-binding resolution to honor the conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was slain by an assassin at a Utah college campus last week.

The measure saw 95 Democrats join the 215 Republicans who supported the resolution, while 58 Democrats opposed it, 38 voted “present” and 22 did not vote. The resolution passed 310-58 and commemorates Kirk, just over a week after he was killed at Utah Valley University in Orem.

All of House Democratic leadership — including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Minority Whip Katherine Clark and Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar — voted in favor of the resolution, which honors Kirk’s life and condemns his killing, calling him one of the “most prominent voices in America, engaging in respectful, civil discourse across college campuses, media platforms, and national forums.”

The resolution also condemns the shooting, commends law enforcement, honors Kirk’s life and calls upon Americans to “recommit to respectful debate, uphold American values, and respect one another as fellow Americans.”

But many Democrats expressed their reservations about honoring Kirk, given his past comments about race, LGBTQ+ people and Black women. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) condemned how Kirk had previously called the Civil Rights Act of 1964 a “mistake,” and said Jewish people controlled colleges, Hollywood and nonprofits.

Read more from Eric Garcia:

AOC rips Charlie Kirk and ABC as House passes resolution with 95 Democrats

Liz Cheney cities Supreme Court ruling in post bashing FCC chair

Friday 19 September 2025 21:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Former Congresswoman Liz Cheney cited a Supreme Court ruling, stating the feds cannot “coerce” private companies in an X post bashing Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr.

“Hey Brendan ‘we can do this the easy way or the hard way’ Carr: Last year in National Rifle Association v. Vullo, the Supreme Court unanimously reaffirmed this fundamental principle of our constitutional republic: ‘Government officials cannot attempt to coerce private parties in order to punish or suppress views that the government disfavors.’

“This doesn't just constrain Democrats. It applies to all officeholders, including you. You took an oath to the Constitution not to Donald Trump,” Cheney, a fervent critic of the president, wrote on Friday.

Carr had put pressure on broadcasters to “take action” against comedian Jimmy Kimmel after comments he made in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

"This is a very, very serious issue right now for Disney. We can do this the easy way or the hard way. These companies can find ways to take action on Kimmel or there is going to be additional work for the FCC ahead,” Carr told conservative podcaster Benny Johnson Wednesday.

Later that day, ABC suspended Kimmel’s show “indefinitely.”

Fox News says Charlie Kirk funeral has rating of 'highest national significance'

Friday 19 September 2025 21:05 , Rachel Dobkin

Fox News National Correspondent Jeff Paul has said Charlie Kirk’s funeral has a Homeland Security rating of the “highest national significance.”

Paul said the Homeland Security Department told Fox News the funeral on Sunday “is being designated as a Special Event assessment rating Level One. This is reserved for the highest national significance.”

Here is a full list of high-profile attendees delivering remarks at the service:

  • Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk
  • President Donald Trump
  • Vice President J.D. Vance
  • White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
  • White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio
  • Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
  • Secretary of War Pete Hegseth
  • Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard
  • Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr.
  • Conservative pundit Tucker Carlson
  • Incoming U.S. Ambassador to India Sergio Gor

CNN analyst who was once 'canceled' says Kimmel's return is 'exceptionally unlikely'

Friday 19 September 2025 20:50 , Rachel Dobkin

CNN Chief Media Analyst Brian Stelter, who got “canceled” from his network and returned, says Jimmy Kimmel's return to ABC is “exceptionally unlikely.”

Speaking to CNN’s Kaitlan Collins Thursday night, Stelter said, “In television, hosts and producers love a plot twist. It would be one hell of a plot twist to have Kimmel return, but I think it is an exceptionally unlikely scenario.”

“Look, take it from me Kaitlan, I’ve been canceled before on television. Sometimes being canceled is the best thing that could ever happen to a TV host,” Stelter said, per Mediaite. “I think Kimmel might be looking around and realizing he has a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity here, a chance to reinvent himself, but you also have to consider the political stakes and the political climate.”

Stelter’s CNN show, “Reliable Sources,” was canceled in 2022, but he returned as an analyst for the network last year.

Ted Cruz compare FCC boss to 'mafioso' over Kimmel suspension

Friday 19 September 2025 20:35 , Josh Marcus

(AP)

Senator Ted Cruz is joining a handful of conservatives who have expressed reservations over the Federal Communications Commission’s posture in the Jimmy Kimmel scandal.

“What he said there is dangerous as hell,” Cruz said on a recent episode of his podcast, referring to FCC chair Brendan Carr’s comments, directed at ABC license-holders, that “we can do this the easy way or the hard way,” which came shortly before Kimmel was taken off the air.

“That’s right out of Goodfellas, that’s right out of a mafioso coming into a bar,” Cruz continued.

“If the government gets in the business of saying, ‘We don’t like what you in the media have said. We’re going to ban you from the airwaves if you don’t say what we like,’ that will end up bad for conservatives,” the Texas senator added.

Others have expressed a similar opinion in recent days, including on Fox News.

‘Outnumbered’ panelist warns Kimmel axing could let Democrats to go after Fox someday

Former Disney CEO slams decision to pull Kimmel: 'Where has all the leadership gone?'

Friday 19 September 2025 20:21 , Josh Marcus

Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner on Friday tore into the decision to pull Jimmy Kimmel from the airwaves.

“Where has all the leadership gone?” he wrote on X, a pointed remark considering Disney is the parent company of ABC, which is home to Jimmy Kimmel Live! “If not for university presidents, law firm managing partners, and corporate chief executives standing up against bullies, who then will step up for the first amendment?”

“The ‘suspending indefinitely’ of Jimmy Kimmel immediately after the Chairman of the FCC's aggressive yet hollow threatening of the Disney Company is yet another example of out-of-control intimidation,” Eisner added. “Maybe the Constitution should have said, “Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, except in one’s political or financial self-interest.”

ABC 'hopeful' Kimmel can return once he has taken 'down the temperature': report

Friday 19 September 2025 20:05 , Josh Marcus

(Getty Images)

The curtains might not have closed for the final time on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, according to ABC insiders.

Sources familiar with the network told CNN that ABC’s parent company Disney is “hopeful” there will be a way to put Kimmel back on the air sometime in the future, even as the comedian’s contract is set to end in May of next year.

Another inside source told the outlet that Kimmel remains well-regarded throughout ABC, despite fears his comments on Charlie Kirk put the network in jeopardy.

“Everyone deeply values him and wants him to come back,” the source said. “But he has to take down the temperature.”

Amid Kimmel controversy, JD Vance says he doesn't believe 'bellyaching from the left over '"free speech"'

Friday 19 September 2025 19:50 , Josh Marcus

Vice President JD Vance clearly isn’t all that alarmed by the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show, despite criticisms that the Trump administration violated free speech rights and pressured the network to take him off the air.

“Jimmy Kimmel wasn’t funny, his ratings were in the toilet, and his advertisers were revolting,” Vance wrote on X on Friday. “Also the bellyaching from the left over ‘free speech’ after the Biden years fools precisely no one.”

“There was a point where I’d watch his show nearly every night,” Vance added. “He’s a genuinely talented guy, but like so much good and funny in the world the woke thing destroyed it.”

Others, like former Kimmel writer Joel Stein, see the suspension as an alarming sign for the state of America. Read his full commentary.

The fall of Jimmy Kimmel marks the beginning of the end for my America

Jimmy Kimmel is the honorary mayor of a small Canadian town with a racy name. Even they’re worried

Friday 19 September 2025 19:35 , Mike Bedigan

Residents of a tiny Canadian town with a racy name – and where Jimmy Kimmel is the honorary mayor – have said the comedian is welcome to return should he remain off air for a long stretch of time.

"I can speak for all the people of the community of Dildo that we would certainly roll out the red carpet for him and he'd be welcome, same as he was if he still had … his television show," bed and breakfast owner Todd Warren told CBC.

Canadian town with naughty name says Jimmy Kimmel should come be mayor after axing

AOC says Charlie Kirk's 'rhetoric and beliefs were ignorant'

Friday 19 September 2025 19:16 , Mike Bedigan

Conan O'Brien speaks out after Jimmy Kimmel pulled off air

Friday 19 September 2025 19:01 , Mike Bedigan

‘Outnumbered’ panelist warns Kimmel axing could set precedent for Democrats to go after Fox News: ‘That part I don’t like’

Friday 19 September 2025 18:43 , Mike Bedigan

The same top-down pressure from the Trump administration that may have led to Jimmy Kimmel’s show being pulled off the air could some day come back to impact conservatives, a Fox News panelist warns.

Josh Marcus has more:

‘Outnumbered’ panelist warns Kimmel axing could let Democrats to go after Fox someday

Watch: New York Cardinal Dolan says Charlie Kirk was a 'modern day St Paul'

Friday 19 September 2025 18:31 , Mike Bedigan

Jon Stewart’s ‘obedient’ Daily Show monologue on Jimmy Kimmel lambasts Trump and the state of free speech in America

Friday 19 September 2025 18:13 , Mike Bedigan

Jon Stewart hosted a rare mid-week episode of The Daily Show on Thursday evening, one day after ABC suspended fellow talk show host Jimmy Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” over comments he made about the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

Katie Hawkinson was watching:

Jon Stewart’s ‘obedient’ Daily Show monologue on Kimmel lambasts Trump

Kimmel speaks out following ABC pulls show

Friday 19 September 2025 18:00 , Mike Bedigan

Jimmy Kimmel has broken his silence since having his late night talk show pulled by network ABC following comments made about the death of Charlie Kirk.

“Wow, it’s strange times out here,” Kimmel wrote in a text responding to his friend, fellow comedian Adam Carolla, asking how he was.

“I’m being followed by a helicopter,” he added.

Watch: Piers Morgan calls Don Lemon a ‘complete d***’ as interview about cancel culture descends into shouting match

Friday 19 September 2025 17:50 , Mike Bedigan

AOC calls out ABC

Friday 19 September 2025 17:37 , Mike Bedigan

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez had strong words for ABC following its axing of Jimmy Kimmel, saying that it was the broadcaster’s responsibility “to refuse to embolden and participate in this corruption and escalation of censorship.”

Calling on Congress Friday morning, AOC urged lawmakers to “unite to reject the government's attempt to weaponize this moment into an all-out assault on free speech across the country.

She continued: “All in the name of Charlie Kirk, President Trump and the FCC are now cynically threatening to shut down ABC and any outlets who give air time to the administration's political critics.

This is a disgusting attack on the American people and the very first amendment rights that define us as a country.”

Watch: U.S. Cardinal Timothy Dolan calls Kirk a 'hero'

Friday 19 September 2025 17:25 , Mike Bedigan

U.S. Cardinal Timothy Dolan has called Charlie Kirk a “modern day Saint Paul,” “an evangelist,” and a “hero.”

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt now has her own Secret Service detail: report

Friday 19 September 2025 17:14 , Mike Bedigan

The Trump administration is taking steps to protect its highest-profile spokesperson in the wake of the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, according to a new report.

Andrew Feinberg has more details:

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt now has her own Secret Service detail

'Outraged' Senate Democrats ask FCC Chair to turn over communications with ABC

Friday 19 September 2025 16:57 , Mike Bedigan

Senate Democrats have asked FCC Chairman Brendan Carr to turn over any communications with ABC regarding Jimmy Kimmel.

In a letter to Carr, the senators say they are “outraged” by the comments he made on Benny Johnson’s podcast.

They continue to say that it is “unacceptable for the FCC Chairman to threaten a media organization because he does not like the content of its programming—it violates the 1st Amendment that you claim to champion.”

Watch: Charlie Kirk’s spiritual mentor details activist’s final moments as they rushed him to the hospital

Friday 19 September 2025 16:41 , Mike Bedigan

Half of Americans disapprove of decision to axe Kimmel show

Friday 19 September 2025 16:27 , Mike Bedigan

A new poll has found that half of Americans disapprove of the decision by ABC to pull Jimmy Kimmel, Live! off air, following his remarks about the death of Charlie Kirk.

“Do you approve or disapprove of ABC taking Jimmy Kimmel off the air after the FCC chair criticized comments by Kimmel related to Charlie Kirk and suggested the FCC could take action?” asked the survey by YouGov.

It found that 42 percent strongly disapproved of the move, and 8 percent slightly disapprove.

26 percent strongly approved, and nine percent slightly approved.

Full Story: Disney execs and Kimmel haggled over response to FCC Charlie Kirk complaint right before ABC pulled him off air, reports say

Friday 19 September 2025 16:16 , Mike Bedigan

Disney execs and Kimmel haggled over response to FCC Charlie Kirk complaint

FCC chair thinks it’s ‘worthwhile’ to investigate ‘The View’ as show skips Jimmy Kimmel firing

Friday 19 September 2025 16:07 , Mike Bedigan

FCC chair: Investigating ‘The View’ worthwhile as show skips Kimmel

Democrats need to 'stop embarrassing themselves' over Kimmel, RNC advisor says

Friday 19 September 2025 15:53 , Mike Bedigan

Republican National Committee senior adviser Danielle Alvarez has said that Democrats need to “stop embarrassing themselves” and face the reality of why Jimmy Kimmel was pulled off air.

“We need to be real about the changing media landscape that is currently playing out," Alvarez told Newsmax’s "Wake Up America" Friday.

"It costs millions and millions of dollars to put Jimmy Kimmel on air, and he maybe gets 1 to 2 million viewers a night. There are conservative podcasters that get 10 to 20 million viewers per episode, and it doesn't cost nearly that amount to produce those shows."

"The media landscape is changing," she added. "Nobody is interested in watching Jimmy Kimmel despite it being piped into our homes through network television. This was a very cut-and-dried business decision, and we shouldn't detract from the reality that Charlie Kirk lost his life for free speech — for what he said."

Analysis: The sinister role of ‘black-pilling’ in the murder of Charlie Kirk

Friday 19 September 2025 15:42 , Mike Bedigan

The sinister role of ‘black-pilling’ in the murder of Charlie Kirk

Kimmel and Disney could not agree on response to backlash to Charlie Kirk comments, report

Friday 19 September 2025 15:30 , Mike Bedigan

Jimmy Kimmel and Disney execs could not agree on the correct response to take in the fallout from the comedian’s remarks about the death of Charlie Kirk, resulting in the cancellation of his late night show.

Kimmel was reportedly due to make a statement during Wednesday’s show, but could not agree on the language that would not exacerbate the situation further by the time taping was due to begin, sources told Reuters.

It came after comments made by the talk show host in his monologue Monday sparked fierce backlash online and led to death threats that raised concerns for the safety of Kimmel and his staff, the source said.

Watch: Church plays AI clips of Charlie Kirk saying words he never said, gets standing ovation

Friday 19 September 2025 15:15 , Mike Bedigan

October 14 to be National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk

Friday 19 September 2025 14:54 , Mike Bedigan

The U.S. Senate has passed a resolution which declares that October 14, 2025, will be a National Day of Remembrance for Charlie Kirk.

The new resolution designates the day as an opportunity for "Americans to reflect on Kirk’s contributions to public debate and civic engagement."

October 14 would have been the MAGA commentator’s 32nd birthday.

Florida Senator Rick Scott, announced the designation of the resolution on September 16, describing Kirk was a "magnetic leader, a loving father and husband, and a friend and inspiration to so many."

"Charlie loved our nation and its founding principles and believed deeply in his faith, in his family, and in the beauty of ideas and discussion," he added.

Some online have pointed out that October 14 is also the birthday of George Floyd, a Black man whose death at the hands of police officers in Minneapolis sparked widespread rioting across the U.S.

Marvel star announces Disney boycott after Jimmy Kimmel suspension

Friday 19 September 2025 14:41 , Mike Bedigan

Marvel star Tatiana Maslany is leading calls to cancel Disney+ subscriptions in the wake of Jimmy Kimmel’s indefinite suspension.

US network ABC, which is owned by Disney, revealed earlier this week that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would no longer be broadcast after the host made controversial implications about the identity of Tyler Robinson, the suspected gunman behind the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Marvel star announces Disney boycott over Jimmy Kimmel suspension

Watch: Jimmy Fallon mocks Donald Trump's UK state visit as he backs Jimmy Kimmel after suspension

Friday 19 September 2025 14:30 , Mike Bedigan

Vigil for unity to be held at campus where Charlie Kirk was shot

Friday 19 September 2025 14:21 , Mike Bedigan

A vigil for unity is due to be held Friday at the Utah Valley University campus where Charlie Kirk was shot just over a week ago.

The event is due to take place at the UCCU Center at 4 p.m. local time, with doors opening at 2:30 p.m.

UVU has made clear that no bags of any kind will be allowed into the center for the vigil as an added safety precaution.

Political heavyweights to give remarks at Charlie Kirk's funeral

Friday 19 September 2025 14:08 , Mike Bedigan

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance are both set to give remarks at Charlie Kirk’s funeral Sunday.

The broadcaster’s wife, Erika Kirk, will also speak, as will several other political heavyweights including Stephen Miller, Marco Rubio and former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, among others.

Law enforcement monitoring 'threats' ahead of Kirk funeral

Friday 19 September 2025 13:51 , Mike Bedigan

Federal law enforcement agencies are monitoring several unconfirmed “threats” ahead of Charlie Kirk’s funeral.

The memorial service is due to take place Sunday in Glendale, Arizona.

According to a memo, obtained by ABC News, the threats reportedly target attendees such as President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and members of the Kirk family.

It is not known how credible the threats are.

The memo warned that the memorial may be viewed by some lone actors as a potential target due to the attendance of such high profile figures, including politicians.

Charlie Kirk’s spiritual mentor details activist’s final moments as they rushed him to the hospital

Friday 19 September 2025 13:37 , Mike Bedigan

Charlie Kirk’s spiritual mentor has recounted the shocking moments after the right wing commentator was shot and how he was rushed to the hospital in a car that still had a door swinging open.

Frank Turek, a Christian author, was just yards away talking to his daughter on FaceTime when the fatal shot was fired, causing Kirk to fall backwards off his chair, bleeding heavily from his neck.

Charlie Kirk’s mentor details activist’s final moments as he was rushed to hospital

Watch: MTG and Jasmine Crockett argue over Charlie Kirk murderers ties to MAGA

Friday 19 September 2025 13:00 , Alex Croft

All we know about Charlie Kirk's funeral

Friday 19 September 2025 12:28 , Alex Croft

On Sunday, supporters of Charlie Kirk are expected to flock to Arizona where they will pay respects to the murdered conservative commentator.

According to fightforcharlie.com, a website set up after his death, the doors will open at 8am with the program set to start at 11am.

Bags are not permitted at the funeral, which is expected to have high security given the profile of the attendees.

The memorial will be held at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.

Attendees have been asked to wear ‘Sunday Best’ attire in red, white and blue.

Ex-Paramount head reacts to suspension of Jimmy Kimmel show

Friday 19 September 2025 12:02 , Alex Croft

Former Paramount chairwoman Shari Redstone has reacted to ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s late show after the comedian made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

"Not because of Trump or because of any other reasons, but I do think we all need to be thoughtful of the content we are putting on air given the division that exists in this country,” Redstone told Axios.

JimmyWatch: Fallon mocks Donald Trump's UK state visit as he backs Jimmy Kimmel after suspension

Friday 19 September 2025 11:30 , Alex Croft

Jimmy Kimmel's time slot replaced with 'Celebrity Family Feud'

Friday 19 September 2025 10:58 , Alex Croft

The time slot for Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show was replaced with an episode of the game show “Celebrity Family Feud” Thursday night.

The schedule switch-up comes after ABC suspended the comedian’s show “indefinitely.” It’s unclear what will fill Kimmel’s time slot regularly.

Pedro Pascal stands with Jimmy Kimmel

Friday 19 September 2025 10:33 , Alex Croft

In a show of support Thursday, actor Pedro Pascal said he is “standing with” comedian Jimmy Kimmel after his ABC late night show was suspended.

Pascal called to defend free speech and democracy as others have done following the news Wednesday that Kimmel’s show would be paused “indefinitely” after he made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Trump suggests networks should have licenses ‘taken away’ for being too critical

Friday 19 September 2025 10:01 , Alex Croft

Networks whose programming is largely anti-Trump should have their government-approved broadcasting license “taken away,” President Trump suggested, in comments that alarmed free expression advocates.

Speaking to reporters on Thursday, the president complained that networks air shows featuring coverage and commentary about him that was almost entirely negative, which meant the Federal Communications Commission could pull their licenses.

“All they do is hit Trump,” the president said. “They’re licensed. They’re not allowed to do that.”

As the FCC’s website notes, the commission does not license the large corporate broadcast networks like ABC or NBC, but rather the individual stations that carry their content locally. The commission also does not involve itself in content decisions.

“Broadcasters – not the FCC or any other government agency – are responsible for selecting the material they air,” according to the commission site. “The First Amendment and the Communications Act expressly prohibit the Commission from censoring broadcast matter. Our role in overseeing program content is very limited.”

Read more from Josh Marcus:

‘All they do is hit’: Trump says networks should be axed for critical coverage

Watch Jon Stewart’s not so subtle dig at Trump after Kimmel taken off the air

Friday 19 September 2025 09:29 , Alex Croft

Recap: Why Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show was suspended

Friday 19 September 2025 09:01 , Oliver O'Connell

ABC has pulled Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show off the air, indefinitely — an unprecedented move that followed backlash from affiliated broadcasters and the head of the Federal Communications Commission over the comic's remarks about last week's killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kimmel’s comments did not extensively focus on Kirk, a longtime ally of President Donald Trump. He instead took aim at Trump and his “MAGA Gang” supporters for their response to the assassination, which he said included “finger-pointing” and attempts to characterize the alleged shooter as “anything other than one of them.”

Ahead of ABC’s suspension, broadcasters Nexstar and Sinclair had said they would be pulling Kimmel’s show from their affiliated stations. The FCC had also warned that the network and its local affiliates could face repercussions if Kimmel was not punished.

Kimmel, whose contract with The Walt Disney Co.-owned network expires in May 2026, did not immediately comment on the suspension.

Here’s what we know:

Why was Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show suspended? Here's what we know

Law enforcement 'tracking threats' against Trump, Vance and Kirk family ahead of funeral

Friday 19 September 2025 08:38 , Alex Croft

Federal law enforcement agencies are “tracking several threats of unknown credibility” ahead of Charlie Kirk’s memorial in Glendale, Arizona on Sunday.

The threats are against expected attendees including President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other members of the Kirk family, the report said according to ABC News.

"Violent extremists and unaffiliated lone offenders may view the memorial service or related events as attractive attack targets due to the attendance of these individuals, other senior US government officials, state and local government officials, and political activists and due to major international media attention," a memo issued by a number of agencies including the FBI, Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS), Secret Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

It was distributed to law enforcement and government agencies, the network reported.

Pete Buttigieg warns companies that try to appease Trump will 'wind up regretting it'

Friday 19 September 2025 08:15 , Rachel Dobkin

Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned Thursday companies that try to appease President Donald Trump will “wind up regretting it.”

“Any corporation that thinks they can win by playing Trump's game will wind up regretting it, sooner or later, because he will never have enough,” Buttigieg said.

Buttigieg’s comments add to the chorus of criticism the Trump administration has gotten over ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show.

Critics see the move as a violation of free speech and a power grab from Trump, who has shared his contempt for Kimmel in the past and celebrated his show’s suspension.

Critics have noticed the show’s suspension came after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr put pressure on broadcasters to “take action on Kimmel” following comments the comedian made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Carr was first nominated by Trump to be an FCC commissioner in 2017, and he maintained his position in the Biden administration. Trump chose Carr to chair the agency during his second term as president.

In pictures: People protest suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show

Friday 19 September 2025 07:45 , Rachel Dobkin

People protested ABC’s decision to suspend comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show in California on Thursday.

A protester holds up a sign showing his love for Jimmy Kimmel outside El Capitan Entertainment Centre where Kimmel’s show is filmed (AP)
A protester with her mouth taped shut holds up a ‘free speech sign’ outside The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank (AP)
People protest outside The Walt Disney Company’s headquarters (REUTERS)

Tim Walz calls Jimmy Kimmel show suspension 'North Korea style stuff'

Friday 19 September 2025 07:15 , Rachel Dobkin

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has called ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show “North Korea-style stuff.”

“And it's being done because this is a weak, thin skinned man who's failing as a president. All of the things he promised are not happening,” the former vice presidential nominee told MSNBC’s Chris Hayes Thursday night. “It's our most cherished freedom to point out very clearly, this is a terrible president.”

The decision to pause Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” comes after the comedian made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and ally to President Donald Trump.

Kimmel has been critical of Trump, and critics have noticed the show’s suspension came after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr put pressure on broadcasters to “take action on Kimmel.”

Carr was first nominated by Trump to be an FCC commissioner in 2017, and he maintained his position in the Biden administration. Trump chose Carr to chair the agency during his second term as president.

MAGA figure says Disney boycott sends 'very important message'

Friday 19 September 2025 06:45 , Rachel Dobkin

Former Congressman Matt Gaetz, who is still a prominent figure in the MAGA movement, said Thursday calls to boycott Disney send a “very important message.”

“You’ve spent the last decade becoming increasingly political and cozy with the Left,” Gaetz told Disney in an X post. “But the Left isn’t a reliable partner. They’ll turn on you in a flash if you attempt any reasonable decision-making.”

Ex-Paramount head reacts to suspension of Jimmy Kimmel show

Friday 19 September 2025 06:15 , Rachel Dobkin

Former Paramount chairwoman Shari Redstone has reacted to ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s late show after the comedian made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

"Not because of Trump or because of any other reasons, but I do think we all need to be thoughtful of the content we are putting on air given the division that exists in this country,” Redstone told Axios.

Redstone was still at Paramount when the media company decided to cancel Stephen Colbert’s late-night show.

Both Kimmel and Colbert had been critical of Trump. Paramount insisted its decision was purely financial.

Disney faces boycott calls after it suspends Jimmy Kimmel's show

Friday 19 September 2025 05:45 , Rachel Dobkin

Disney has faced boycott calls after its ABC network suspended Jimmy Kimmel's late night show following comments he made about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Meet Trump’s ‘free speech warrior’ behind Kimmel suspension

Friday 19 September 2025 05:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Alex Woodward takes a closer look at FCC Chairman Brendan Carr:

Moments after Donald Trump appointed him to regulate the nation’s broadcasters, Brendan Carr promised to “dismantle the censorship cartel and restore free speech rights for everyday Americans.”

In January, Trump called him a “warrior for Free Speech.”

Carr, now the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, also wrote a chapter about the agency in Project 2025, the right-wing think-tank blueprint for Trump’s second administration. The agency, he wrote in the chapter’s first words, “should promote freedom of speech.”

Since entering the role, Carr has embraced Trump’s campaign against broadcasters who air critical coverage of his administration, investigated major networks for their diversity policies, and paved the way for ABC to remove comedian and Trump critic Jimmy Kimmel from his long-running late-night show in an apparent act of retaliation.

Carr now appears to be taking a victory lap, posting juvenile memes in response to questions from journalists about the comedian’s suspension.

Read on...

Meet Trump’s ‘free speech warrior’ behind Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension

'Obedient' Jon Stewart and The Daily Show poke fun at free speech in the wake of Jimmy Kimmel's suspension

Friday 19 September 2025 05:21 , Rachel Dobkin

Jon Stewart hosted a rare mid-week episode of The Daily Show on Thursday evening, one day after ABC suspended fellow talk show host Jimmy Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” over comments he made about the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

Stewart, introduced as a “patriotically obedient host,” performed a satirical monologue about free speech, describing his program as “fun, hilarious, administration-compliant show.” He referred to Trump as “father” and “dear leader” as he jokingly praised the president and his recent state trip to the U.K.

“If you felt a little off these past couple of days, it's probably because our great father has not been home, for father has been gracing England with his legendary warmth and radiance,” Stewart joked.

The episode comes amid public outcry over ABC’s decision to suspend Kimmel’s show. The decision was announced just hours after FCC Chair Brendan Carr said Kimmel’s remarks were “truly sick” and suggested ABC’s license could be at risk over it.

Read more from Katie Hawkinson:

‘Obedient’ Jon Stewart and The Daily Show poke fun at free speech

Jon Stewart later posted a clip of the show on X, writing, “Dear leader approved!!!”

What you need to know, so far...

Friday 19 September 2025 05:02 , Oliver O'Connell
  • Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has been indefinitely suspended by ABC following comments he made regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
  • Kimmel had suggested that conservatives were attempting to “score political points” from Kirk's death, leading to widespread backlash and the show being pulled by Sinclair Broadcasting Group and Nexstar Communications Group affiliates, who deemed the comments “offensive” and inappropriate.
  • Former and current late night hosts backed Kimmel, with Stephen Colbert calling ABC’s move “blatant censorship.”
  • President Donald Trump celebrated the suspension, falsely claiming it was due to poor ratings.
  • FCC Chairman Brendan Carr had indicated ABC and Disney could be held accountable for Kimmel's comments, alleging he misled the public about the assassin's ideology.
  • The suspected killer, Tyler Robinson, 22, has been charged with aggravated murder and other counts, with authorities stating he held a “leftist ideology.”
  • The suspension has sparked a broad debate on free speech, with figures like former President Barack Obama criticizing the administration for threatening regulatory action against media companies.
  • Kimmel is reportedly being “livid” and seeking to end his contract with ABC.

Jimmy Fallon calls Jimmy Kimmel 'decent, funny and loving guy'

Friday 19 September 2025 04:42 , Rachel Dobkin

Comedian Jimmy Fallon called his fellow late night host Jimmy Kimmel a “decent funny and loving guy” on his NBC show Thursday night.

“I don’t know what’s going on,” Fallon admitted after ABC suspended Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” following comments he made about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

“He’s a decent funny and loving guy, and I hope he comes back,” Fallon said about Kimmel.

Watch: Trump says network TV is 'not allowed' to constantly take hits at him

Friday 19 September 2025 04:30 , Rachel Dobkin

Stephen Colbert brands Trump an ‘autocrat’ as he defends suspended Jimmy Kimmel

Friday 19 September 2025 04:09 , Rachel Dobkin

Stephen Colbert has branded President Donald Trump an “autocrat” as he criticized ABC’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s talk show.

Colbert called ABC’s move “blatant censorship” and said he stands with Kimmel “100 percent” at the taping of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Thursday night, CNBC reports. This comes after the Disney-owned network took Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air “indefinitely” over the host’s remarks about the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

“With an autocrat, you cannot give an inch,” Colbert said Thursday, according to CNBC.

ABC pulled Kimmel’s show on Wednesday over comments he made during his opening monologue two days prior. Nexstar Media Group, the largest owner of television stations across the country, also said that it would replace Kimmel’s show with “other programming in its ABC-affiliated markets.”

“We had some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and with everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said. “In between the finger-pointing, there was grieving.”

Read more from Katie Hawkinson:

Stephen Colbert brands Trump an ‘autocrat’ as he defends suspended Jimmy Kimmel

Jimmy Kimmel's time slot replaced with 'Celebrity Family Feud'

Friday 19 September 2025 04:00 , Rachel Dobkin

The time slot for Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show has been replaced with an episode of the game show “Celebrity Family Feud” Thursday night.

The schedule switch-up comes after ABC suspended the comedian’s show “indefinitely.” It’s unclear what will fill Kimmel’s time slot regularly.

GOP senator defends Jimmy Kimmel suspension but says 'FCC should not be involved'

Friday 19 September 2025 03:45 , Rachel Dobkin

Senator Rand Paul, a Kentucky Republican, has defended broadcasters' decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s late night show but said the Federal Communications Commission “should not be involved.”

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr had put pressure on broadcasters to “take action on Kimmel” after he made comments about the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

Democrats denounce Trump’s crackdown on critics like Jimmy Kimmel

Friday 19 September 2025 03:15 , Rachel Dobkin

Democrats on Capitol Hill Thursday sounded the alarm that President Donald Trump’s crackdown on critics like Jimmy Kimmel is the beginning of despotic behavior. But they have few resources to combat it.

House and Senate members expressed their alarm after ABC announced Wednesday night that it would suspend Kimmel indefinitely.

Kimmel had come under fire for a monologue earlier in the week in which he spoke about the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and mockingly claimed the “MAGA gang” was “desperately trying to characterize” his alleged killer as “anything other than one of them and with everything they can to score political points from it.”

While the alleged killer’s family is MAGA-sympathetic, the suspect himself railed against that ideology and Kirk, according to authorities.

“Trump is making it 100-percent clear that he is going to ramp up his efforts to use the power of the federal government to harass and punish his critics, not because they're supporters of political violence — they are not — but because they have the audacity to openly oppose his policies,” Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) told reporters.

Read more from Eric Garcia:

Democrats trash Trump’s Kimmel crackdown as ‘budding despot’ play

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