Kimmel’s Suspension Sparks Debate Over Politics and Comedy on U.S. Late-Night Shows

ABC has suspended its late-night program “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely after the host drew backlash for remarks about the reaction to the killing of activist Charlie Kirk.

The suspension followed Kimmel’s September monologue, in which he suggested some political groups were trying to shift blame away from the suspect in order to gain political advantage.

Several broadcast affiliates, including Nexstar-owned stations, announced they would pull the program, citing the comments as offensive.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr criticized the remarks and said regulators would examine whether ABC and its parent company, Disney, were meeting broadcast licensing standards. ABC has not set a date for the show’s return.

The decision has triggered debate about the limits of political commentary in entertainment. Free speech advocates and fellow hosts warn the suspension could have a chilling effect, while critics argue the network acted appropriately given the sensitivity of the issue.