ABC Temporarily Removes Jimmy Kimmel From ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ Following Controversy
NEW YORK – ABC has temporarily pulled Jimmy Kimmel from the air following remarks made during a recent broadcast that prompted backlash from conservative media figure Charlie kirk. The network’s decision, reported Wednesday, comes amid a shifting landscape for late-night television, with Stephen Colbert’s The Late Show on CBS also facing an upcoming conclusion.
Kimmel’s removal stems from a monologue on September 16th where he referenced a video posted by Kirk on social media, mocking the comedian’s mother. Kimmel responded with pointed comments about Kirk’s personal life and appearance. Kirk afterward called for Kimmel’s firing, and the controversy quickly escalated, drawing attention from former President Donald Trump, who has a long-standing feud with Kimmel. This situation highlights the increasing pressure on late-night hosts to navigate politically charged commentary and the potential consequences of crossing ideological lines.
According to a source who spoke with CNBC, Disney-ABC’s parent company-plans to discuss with Kimmel what he will say upon his return to the air, but has not fired him. Trump reacted to reports of Kimmel’s removal on his Truth Social platform,incorrectly stating the show was “CANCELLED” and celebrating ABC’s “courage.” He also targeted Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers, hosts on NBC, calling them “total losers.”
Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been a staple of ABC’s late-night lineup as 2003, marking it as the first and currently only late-night series on the network. The move follows CBS’s announcement in May that The Late show with Stephen Colbert will conclude after the 2025-2026 television season. The future of Kimmel’s show and the broader late-night format remains uncertain as viewership continues to evolve with changing media consumption habits.
