ABC suspends Jimmy Kimmel Live indefinitely after controversial remarks

By Herschel Nobleman 

ABC has pulled the plug—at least for now—on its long-running late-night program Jimmy Kimmel Live! following controversial remarks by host Jimmy Kimmel.

The decision came after Kimmel referenced the killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, sparking immediate backlash. In his monologue, Kimmel criticized political supporters who attempted to distance themselves from the accused, a move that many saw as deeply inappropriate given the circumstances.

The comments quickly drew sharp criticism from viewers, affiliates, and even federal regulators. Nexstar Media Group, which operates numerous ABC stations across the country, announced it would no longer air Jimmy Kimmel Live! for the foreseeable future, calling the remarks offensive and out of step with the values of its local markets.

Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr weighed in as well, condemning Kimmel’s comments as “sick” and warning broadcasters of potential consequences if such content is deemed contrary to the public interest.

In response to the mounting pressure, ABC announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been suspended indefinitely. The network has not yet said whether the show will return, or if Kimmel’s future with ABC is in jeopardy.

Jimmy Kimmel Live! first premiered in 2003 and has been a staple of ABC’s late-night lineup for more than two decades. Its sudden removal underscores how high the stakes have become for television hosts navigating political and cultural controversies.

For now, ABC is left with an empty slot in its nightly schedule, and questions remain about whether one of late night’s longest-running figures will ever return to the air.