Celebrities Unite Against Jimmy Kimmel's Suspension, Citing Free Speech Concerns
More than 400 celebrities, including Jennifer Aniston, Ben Affleck, and Meryl Streep, have signed an open letter condemning the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," by ABC. The letter, spearheaded by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), argues the suspension represents a "dark moment for freedom of speech" in the United States.
The Controversy Surrounding Kimmel's Suspension
The suspension followed remarks Kimmel made regarding the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Specifically, Kimmel criticized the reactions from President Donald Trump and other Republicans. He accused the "MAGA gang" of attempting to distance Tyler Robinson, the man charged with Kirk's murder, from their political movement and exploiting the tragedy for political gain.
Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), criticized Kimmel's comments, suggesting he misled the public. President Trump, who appointed Carr, publicly praised ABC's decision to suspend the show. Trump also suggested broadcast networks treat him unfairly and hinted at potential license revocations.
ACLU's Letter and Celebrity Support
The ACLU's letter emphasizes that government pressure on artists, journalists, and companies in retaliation for their speech undermines the principles of a free country. The letter states, "We the people must never accept government threats to our freedom of speech." It also emphasizes the importance of defending freedom of expression for teachers, government employees, researchers, and students.
Alongside Aniston, Affleck, and Streep, other notable signatories include Selena Gomez, Natalie Portman, Tom Hanks, Rosie O'Donnell, Pedro Pascal, Olivia Rodrigo, and Jamie Lee Curtis. Damon Lindelof, creator of ABC’s "Lost" has also stated he "can't in good conscience work for the company that imposed it" if the suspension is not lifted.
Disney's Response and Kimmel's Return
Following the widespread criticism, Disney, the parent company of ABC, announced that "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" would return on Tuesday. In a statement, Disney said the decision to suspend production was made to avoid inflaming a tense situation and that thoughtful conversations with Kimmel led to the show's return.
ABC pulled the show on Sept. 15, after Kimmel's remarks about Kirk, who died by gunfire while at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10. Kimmel initially offered condolences but later criticized the "MAGA gang's" response to the tragedy.
It is reported Kimmel was ordered to apologize and donate to Kirk's family and Turning Point USA for his suspension to be lifted, though it’s unclear if he will do that on Tuesday’s show.
Late-Night Hosts Respond
Other late-night hosts also rallied in support of Kimmel following his suspension. Stephen Colbert declared "we are all Jimmy Kimmel," while Seth Meyers sarcastically praised Trump before highlighting the importance of free speech.
Some have linked the decision to suspend Kimmel to a larger context of increased scrutiny and pressure on media outlets critical of the Trump administration. Some linked the move to a looming merger involving CBS's parent company that requires US regulatory approval.
The controversy surrounding Kimmel's suspension and the subsequent celebrity response underscores the ongoing debate over free speech and the role of political commentary in entertainment.
