ABC Briefly Pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live After host’s remarks about Charlie Kirk
Los Angeles, CA – ABC News temporarily paused digital and on-air rebroadcasts of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on September 13, 2023, following host Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue criticizing conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The network cited a policy against using its platform too promote disputes wiht individuals.
During the September 12, 2023, episode, Kimmel responded to a video posted by Kirk on X (formerly Twitter) where Kirk criticized ABC News’ interview with President Biden.Kimmel called Kirk a “professional liar” and questioned his credibility, referencing Kirk’s past statements and alleged inconsistencies.He specifically highlighted Kirk’s comments regarding the January 6th Capitol attack.
“This guy, Charlie Kirk, is a professional liar,” Kimmel stated on the show. “He’s a little man who built a whole career on…spreading disinformation.”
Following online backlash from Kirk and his supporters, ABC News issued a statement saying, “We have a policy against using our air to engage in disputes with individuals. as such, we paused digital and on-air rebroadcasts of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to review the segment.”
The network reinstated the episode later the same day, stating that after review, they determined the segment did not violate the policy. A spokesperson for ABC News told Variety that the pause was a ”standard procedure” and that the network supports Kimmel’s right to express his opinions.
Kimmel addressed the situation on the following episode of his show, joking about the brief removal and stating he had been “censored” for speaking truth to power.
The incident sparked debate about the boundaries of late-night comedy and the responsibilities of news organizations regarding commentary on political figures. Kimmel has a history of political commentary on his show, often targeting republican politicians and conservative media personalities. He has also hosted Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, winning an Emmy, and major live events like the Oscars. His current contract with ABC is set to expire in less than a year, leading to speculation about his future with the network.
