The sudden suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! has shaken late-night television, following backlash over Kimmel’s remarks on the assassination of political activist Charlie Kirk.
His monologues, which mocked responses to the tragedy and linked the shooter to extremism, drew sharp criticism, including from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who called the content “truly sick.” ABC and affiliate groups Nexstar and Sinclair quickly pulled the show.
The fallout spread further when Jimmy Fallon abruptly canceled a scheduled appearance at Fast Company’s Innovation Festival in New York, without explanation. Former President Donald Trump praised ABC’s move and urged NBC to act against Fallon. The controversy has fueled debate over free speech, accountability, and the increasingly political pressures facing late-night television.
