ABC has put Jimmy Kimmel Live! on indefinite suspension following a firestorm of criticism over host Jimmy Kimmel’s comments on the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
During Monday night’s monologue, Kimmel accused right-wing figures of trying to separate themselves from the suspected killer, saying many were “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.”
The remarks triggered backlash from conservative leaders, media watchdogs, and ABC affiliates.
Nexstar Media Group, which owns 32 ABC stations, announced it would stop airing the show, describing Kimmel’s comments as “offensive and insensitive.” Sinclair Broadcast Group followed, demanding that Kimmel apologize publicly to Kirk’s family and make a contribution to Kirk’s organization, Turning Point USA.
The controversy escalated after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr described the remarks as “truly sick” and hinted that ABC could face regulatory consequences if no action was taken.
In response to the mounting corporate and political pressure, ABC confirmed on Wednesday that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would be “pre-empted indefinitely.”
The suspension has sparked a wider debate on free speech, satire, and corporate influence in late-night television. Supporters of Kimmel argue that pulling the show risks setting a dangerous precedent for political commentary, while critics maintain that his remarks crossed a line amid heightened political tensions.
ABC has not announced when or if the show will return, leaving the future of one of late-night television’s most prominent programs uncertain.
