ABC has announced that Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night talk show will be “pre-empted indefinitely” following remarks made by the host about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The network confirmed the decision to The Post on September 17, citing Kimmel’s comments as a factor.
During a monologue on September 10, Kimmel criticized the “MAGA gang” for attempting to reframe the shooter in Kirk’s case as unrelated to their ideology. The incident occurred when Kirk was shot on the campus of Utah Valley University. Nexstar Media Group, which operates ABC affiliates, stated it would preempt Kimmel’s program in response to his remarks.
President Trump expressed support for the decision, later urging the cancellation of other late-night hosts. Brian Krassenstein, a commentator, described Kimmel’s comments as a “mistake,” though critics argued the remarks were intentional and aligned with broader narratives about radicalization.
The article includes perspectives from external contributors, emphasizing that ABC’s action reflects its right to terminate partnerships without infringing on free speech. No further details about the show’s future have been disclosed.