A live stream from TMZ captured employees reacting with laughter and cheers upon hearing President Trump announce the death of Charlie Kirk, sparking accusations of insensitivity. The incident occurred during a broadcast covering the shooting of Kirk, a conservative commentator, in Utah.
The footage, later analyzed by Patrick Bet-David, revealed a mix of sounds in the background as the news broke. TMZ founder Harvey Levin attempted to clarify the situation, claiming employees were watching a car chase rather than the breaking news. However, Bet-David’s review of synchronized livestreams exposed contradictions.
In one clip, TMZ staff are heard reacting immediately after Trump’s statement about Kirk’s death. A colleague is seen rushing to the back of the office to silence the group. Levin later argued the laughter was unrelated to Kirk’s assassination, pointing to a separate car chase broadcast. Bet-David challenged this explanation, highlighting that the car chase coverage included an announcer falsely declaring Kirk dead.
The video evidence prompted calls for accountability, with critics asserting TMZ employees should have been dismissed for their inappropriate reactions. The incident has intensified scrutiny of media outlets’ handling of sensitive events.