ABC has pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air indefinitely after the late-night host made remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, sparking a wave of criticism and political backlash.
In a statement to AFP, the network confirmed that the show had been “preempted indefinitely,” without specifying when or if Kimmel would return to the air. The decision comes amid mounting controversy surrounding his on-air comments earlier this week.
Kimmel’s Remarks
During his monologue, Kimmel addressed the shooting of Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot during a speaking event at a Utah university. Police have charged 22-year-old Tyler Robinson with murder, alleging that he fired a single shot from a rooftop.
Kimmel accused the MAGA movement of attempting to distance itself from the suspected gunman in order to avoid political fallout. He criticized what he described as a hypocritical effort to “score political points” while downplaying extremism within the movement.
The comments quickly spread across social media, drawing condemnation from conservative figures who accused Kimmel of politicizing a tragedy and showing insensitivity toward Kirk’s death.
ABC’s Decision
The network moved swiftly to remove Kimmel’s program from its lineup, saying it would be off-air “indefinitely.” While ABC did not clarify the length of the suspension, industry insiders said the decision reflects concern about the intensity of the backlash and its potential impact on advertisers.
Kimmel has not issued a public statement in response to the suspension, though sources close to the show said he was taken by surprise at the speed of ABC’s decision.
Political and Public Reactions
The killing of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative commentator and close ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, has already heightened political tensions in the United States. The White House earlier signaled it would pursue what it described as a “left-wing domestic terror movement” in the aftermath of the shooting, further fueling debate over political extremism and accountability.
Conservative groups praised ABC’s decision, calling it a necessary step against “irresponsible rhetoric” on mainstream television. But critics of the suspension argue that it raises concerns about freedom of speech and whether media networks are caving to political pressure.
What Comes Next
It remains unclear when Jimmy Kimmel Live! might return to the air, or under what conditions. Industry analysts note that ABC faces a difficult balancing act between protecting its brand and responding to public outcry, while also defending its on-air talent.
The controversy highlights broader questions about the role of late-night comedy in today’s polarized political climate — and whether outspoken commentary, once a staple of the genre, is becoming increasingly untenable for networks under pressure.
For now, one of America’s most recognizable late-night hosts has been sidelined, as ABC grapples with how to navigate the fallout from Kimmel’s remarks and the highly charged political atmosphere surrounding Kirk’s death.
