By Sybil Mulcahy
Copyright evoke
Late-night TV has been rocked by controversy as Jimmy Kimmel has found himself suspended indefinitely by ABC following divisive remarks about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The development has left fans and critics shocked, with many wondering what’s next for the outspoken host, so what actually happened?
During a recent episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the comedian made comments about Kirk’s assassination that some viewers found offensive.
On Monday night he said ‘We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterise this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.
‘On Friday, the White House flew the flags at half staff, which got some criticism, but on a human level, you can see how hard the president is taking this,’ he went on.
The clip then showed President Trump, 79, taking questions from reporters following the shooting, as one offered their condolences for the death of his ‘friend’ Kirk.
Kimmel went on ‘This is not how an adult grieves the murder of someone he calls a friend. This is how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish.’
ABC acted swiftly, pulling the show off the air and leaving Kimmel’s future with the network uncertain. Insiders have hinted that the decision was made to protect the network’s reputation amidst mounting backlash.
The suspension has sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, with Hollywood stars rallying to Kimmel’s defense. Many have taken to social media to criticise ABC’s decision, calling it an attack on free speech. Others, however, have remained silent, perhaps wary of wading into the controversy.
Despite the drama, sources close to the comedian suggest he’s already planning his next move. Rumors are swirling that Kimmel may be eyeing a new platform, with some speculating he could take his brand of humor to streaming services or even launch his own independent show.
Shortly after ABC announced Kimmel had been suspended, Trump wrote on social: ‘The ratings challenged Jimmy Kimmel Show is CANCELLED. Congratulations to ABC for finally having the courage to do what had to be done.
