Political humor muzzled: Kimmel's suspension ignites controversy over freedom of expression

ABC has put "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on an indefinite hiatus after host Jimmy Kimmel made comments during a monologue about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. During Monday night's episode, Kimmel accused the "MAGA group" of trying to "portray the individual who killed Charlie Kirk as anyone but one of their own" and condemned the political manipulation of the event. His remarks drew intense criticism from conservatives, including Donald Trump, who celebrated the suspension online, calling it “Great News for America.”

ABC has not disclosed additional information about the suspension, only stating that the move was in response to mounting political and regulatory pressures. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) had previously cautioned

and ABC that the show risked regulatory repercussions if it remained on air. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, a prominent Trump backer, threatened action against networks broadcasting Kimmel’s show, citing "news distortion" and possible breaches of broadcast rules.

This development comes after CBS cancelled Stephen Colbert’s "Late Show with Stephen Colbert," a decision the network attributed to "purely financial" reasons, although many suspect political motives. Both Kimmel and Colbert have often used their platforms to critique Trump and his administration, frequently lampooning right-wing rhetoric. The announcement of Colbert's show's end in May 2025 also sparked divided opinions. While CBS maintained it was a financial decision, detractors argued the network was succumbing to political forces.

Kimmel’s suspension has underscored the ongoing political polarization. California Governor Gavin Newsom decried the decision as a “coordinated and dangerous attack” on free speech, while Democratic Senator Chris Murphy accused Trump of exploiting Kirk’s death to stifle dissent. In contrast, conservatives like Megyn Kelly and Mark Levin approved of the suspension, with Kelly suggesting the network likely received a flood of viewer complaints. At the same time,

, an ABC affiliate operator, defended their removal of Kimmel’s show by calling for “respectful, constructive dialogue.”

The controversy has also drawn responses from media advocacy groups and unions. Both the Writers Guild of America East and West issued a joint statement condemning the suspension as an assault on free expression, criticizing networks for shutting down dissenting perspectives. Fiona O’Brien of Reporters Without Borders called the action a “dangerous turning point for democracy,” stressing that the press should challenge those in power, not serve their interests.

With Kimmel and Colbert now off late-night television, two major satirical voices have disappeared from the political commentary landscape. The remaining hosts, such as Jimmy Fallon and Seth Meyers, continue to face pressure from the Trump administration, which is urging NBC to take similar action. As regulatory and political challenges mount, the trajectory of late-night TV—and the broader question of media freedom—faces increasing uncertainty.