Today's News: ABC Suspends Jimmy Kimmel After Political Pressure Over Charlie Kirk Comments
The FCC chair, Brendan Carr, suggested regulatory actions against ABC.
Photo: Randy Holmes/Disney
Overview
Date: September 17-18, 2025
Summary: Disney-owned ABC has indefinitely suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following the host’s comments regarding the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension comes amid significant political pressure from the Trump administration and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), chaired by Brendan Carr, who suggested regulatory actions against ABC. Kimmel’s remarks on the air were criticized as misrepresenting the political affiliations of Tyler Robinson, the accused shooter. Several ABC affiliates, including Nexstar and Sinclair, decided to preempt Kimmel’s show, reflecting growing tensions between the media and political authorities. The situation has sparked debates on free speech and alleged governmental overreach comparable to tactics used by authoritarian regimes.
Sources
The New York Times - ABC Pulls Jimmy Kimmel Off Air for Charlie Kirk Comments After F.C.C. Pressure
The Washington Post - ABC takes Jimmy Kimmel off the air over remarks on Charlie Kirk’s killing
The Wall Street Journal - Disney Pulls Jimmy Kimmel’s Show After Kirk Remarks
Key Points
Disney’s ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel’s show after his comments about Charlie Kirk’s killing, citing backlash from conservative circles and political pressure.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr played a significant role in the decision, threatening regulatory action against ABC affiliates, leading Nexstar and Sinclair to preempt Kimmel’s show.
President Trump and his administration have been accused of exerting pressure on media companies that criticize him, drawing comparisons to authoritarian tactics.
The suspension is seen in the context of the Trump administration’s history of lawsuits and settlements with media organizations, affecting their programming decisions.
The decision has sparked debates over free speech, with organizations like the ACLU criticizing the move as a threat to First Amendment rights.
Unique Highlights
CNN draws parallels between Trump’s tactics and Viktor Orbán’s media control in Hungary, highlighting a broader strategy of silencing critics.
NBC News mentions other institutions disciplining individuals for comments on Kirk’s death, which suggests a wider crackdown on speech.
The New York Times highlights previous lawsuits filed by President Trump against media outlets and reports Disney’s recent settlement of a lawsuit by Trump.
The Wall Street Journal details the financial settlements between media companies and Trump, framing the suspension as part of a series of concessions to the administration.
The Wall Street Journal notes other media layoffs following Trump’s influence and draws attention to economic aspects affecting late-night shows.
Contrasting Details
The New York Times emphasizes the involvement of Disney executives in the decision, while The Washington Post and The Wall Street Journal suggest broader network and affiliate influence.
The Washington Post and NBC News highlight criticism from Democratic figures and entities who argue against government suppression of free speech.
The New York Times mentions Mr. Carr’s focus on local broadcasters exerting pressure, whereas CNN details the broader anti-media strategy by the Trump administration.
Fox News downplays the political angle, focusing on market forces and ratings as justifications for the suspension, contrasting with CNN and NBC News, which highlight political motivations.
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The Washington Post reports on criticism from the Democratic FCC Commissioner, while Fox News and The New York Times focus more on the support for Carr’s actions.