What Did Jimmy Kimmel Say? ABC Suspends Host After Remarks on Charlie Kirk Spark Uproar
Jimmy Kimmel has once again set himself up in the centre of contestation, this time facing an indefinite suspension from ABC after reflections made about the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.
The late-night host is no foreigner to sharp political commentary. However, his most recent commentary, delivered during his September 15 harangue, has sparked a storm far beyond the usual prejudiced debate.
What did Jimmy Kimmel say?
On his show, Kimmel accused the “MAGA gang” of politicising Charlie Kirk’s death following a fatal shooting.
He went further, mocking the public mourning gestures, including lowering flags to half-mast.
BREAKING: Nexstar has just dropped Jimmy Kimmel’s show from all ABC stations effective immediately.
Jimmy Kimmel’s career may be over. pic.twitter.com/18Af5tVVyn
— Ian Jaeger (@IanJaeger29) September 17, 2025
He compared the act to a child grieving the loss of a pet, before adding: “This is not how an adult grieves.”
It was a line that instantly divided opinion, some saw it as a brutal but valid critique of political posturing, others condemned it as deeply insensitive.
The reaction was swift. Critics across the political spectrum weighed in. Brendan Carr, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, condemned the remarks, calling them “the sickest conduct possible.”
Carr urged ABC’s parent company, Disney, to step in, stressing that an apology alone would not be enough.
Within hours, Nexstar Media, one of America’s largest TV station owners, also pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live from its schedule, citing concerns about “offensive commentary during a national tragedy.”
Trump’s Reaction
Former President Donald Trump wasted no time in responding. Posting on Truth Social, he praised ABC’s decision: “Great News for America: The ratings-challenged Jimmy Kimmel Show is CANCELLED.
“Great News for America: The ratings challenged Jimmy Kimmel Show is CANCELLED. Congratulations to @ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done…” – President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/Vhj6DQSssu
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) September 18, 2025
Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done. Kimmel has ZERO talent, and worse ratings than even Colbert, if that’s possible.”
The statement added fuel to an already heated debate.
A shift in late-night TV
Kimmel’s suspension isn’t just about one monologue. It’s a symptom of bigger changes in broadcasting. Networks are increasingly cautious of politically charged humour, particularly in moments of public grief.
Nexstar stressed the importance of “respectful and constructive dialogue,” hinting at a cultural shift in what late-night hosts can and cannot get away with.
This comes amid a broader decline in traditional late-night programming. Viewership is sliding as younger audiences move to streaming. CBS recently announced The Late Show with Stephen Colbert will wrap in 2026, another sign that the golden age of late-night may be fading.
For now, the future of Jimmy Kimmel Live remains uncertain. ABC has not indicated when or if the comedian will return.
The suspension has sparked debate about free speech, accountability, and the limits of comedy in an era where every word is scrutinised.
One thing is clear: when people ask, “What did Jimmy Kimmel say?” the answer is not just about a monologue. It’s about a cultural clash playing out on the biggest stage in American television.
