NEW YORK (AP) — ABC announced it will reinstate Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show after a brief suspension following negative reactions to his comments about the recent murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Following consultation with Kimmel, network officials confirmed that thoughtful conversations led to the decision to return the show on Tuesday. Kimmel's remarks, which included criticism aimed at President Donald Trump and his supporters, were initially met with backlash from major affiliate owners, resulting in the show's suspension.
Commenting on the reinstatement, Andrew Kolvert, a spokesperson for Kirk's organization, Turning Point USA, expressed disappointment that Kimmel would return to air, implying that ABC's decision reflected a capitulation to public pressure. On the other hand, no immediate comments were received from Nexstar and Sinclair, the major affiliates that had pulled Kimmel’s show.
Initial reactions to Kimmel's suspension emphasized the sensitivity of his comments, which ABC described as ill-timed and insensitive during a particularly emotional moment for the country. Meanwhile, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr characterized Kimmel's statements as truly sick but denied that he issued threats against ABC or its affiliates.
Kimmel described Kirk’s death as a senseless murder, criticizing those who celebrated it and condemning Trump for allegedly attempting to blame the radical left. His comments also targeted the alleged shooter and criticized the political motivations surrounding the response. Kimmel’s remarks attracted both condemnation and support from various figures, including former President Barack Obama, who decried attempts to threaten media companies regarding their treatment of conservative commentary.
Amid the contentious political landscape surrounding the incident, congressional Democrats have proposed legislation to strengthen free speech protections against government censorship, a move reflecting the narrative’s implications for media freedom and political discourse.
