Jimmy Kimmel has come under fire for controversial comments made about the recent death of political commentator Charlie Kirk. In response, Sinclair Broadcast Group, the largest ABC affiliate group in the U.S., announced the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on their stations as of September 17.
Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and close ally of former President Donald Trump, was fatally shot on September 10 during a public event at Utah Valley University. The shooting occurred while Kirk was discussing gun violence, and it left a lasting impact due to the public nature of the attack, which occurred in front of an audience including his wife and children. The suspect, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, has been charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated murder.
During a recent episode of his show, Kimmel criticized Trump’s response to Kirk’s death. Kimmel aired a clip in which Trump appeared to shift focus from the tragedy to construction plans at the White House. Kimmel remarked that Trump’s behavior resembled that of a child, sparking heated reactions online and from Trump himself, who called for Kimmel’s firing.
Kimmel also commented on the broader political discourse surrounding the shooting. He accused some political figures of trying to deflect blame or politicize the tragedy for their own ends. His remarks were viewed as divisive by some and inappropriate by others, especially given the sensitive timing.
Sinclair issued a statement with three conditions for the return of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to its affiliated stations: a formal discussion with ABC about accountability, a public apology to the Kirk family, and a personal donation to both the family and Kirk’s organization, Turning Point USA.
As of now, Kimmel has not issued a public statement regarding Sinclair’s demands or the future of his show.