Jimmy Kimmel’s future at ABC just got a little murkier. Meanwhile, negotiations with Disney are ongoing over the fate of his long-running show, the flagship of the Kimmel empire, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” The realization led to the program being removed from the air indefinitely. This decision raised many voices in favor and against from all quarters of Hollywood and the world. Variety now reports that highly placed sources in the negotiations still believe that the show could be returning. Fans might just find it back on air before long!
The temporary shutdown of Kimmel’s show has received rebuke from hundreds of actors, writers, and other creative professionals in the entertainment industry. Many have taken to the streets and the airwaves complaining about this alleged suppression of free speech. Conservative commentators have weighed in, arguing that Kimmel’s suspension exemplifies the “consequence culture” and “cancel culture” they often denounce.
Former President Donald Trump suggested that the federal government might revoke broadcast licenses for networks that he perceives as opposing him. This clarification re-introduces some complexity into the ongoing conversation about Kimmel’s show, what it portends for the future, and even what it means.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr remarked on a conversation he had with Kimmel, stating, “He says, ‘We can do this the easy way, or we can do this the hard way’ … that’s right out of Goodfellas.” Environmental and climate advocates were understandably shocked by this comment, as was Republican Senator Ted Cruz from Texas. He did so by likening Carr’s comments to threats issued by the Mafia. In this strange new world, Cruz has become one of the most surprise defenders of Kimmel.
On social media, New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez called for Kimmel’s reinstatement, asserting, “Disney/ABC have a responsibility to refuse to participate in corruption.” Their statement is a sign of the times as more lawmakers are starting to think Kimmel’s suspension is a raw deal.
Even former Disney CEO Michael Eisner came to Kimmel’s defense. In a thread on X, he wrote, “Wheres [sic] all the leadership lost?” Eisner further expressed his admiration for Kimmel, saying, “By-the-way, for the record, this ex-CEO finds Jimmy Kimmel very talented and funny.”
The situation escalated recently when hundreds of people gathered in Burbank, California, participating in a protest organized by the Writers Guild of America and the group Burbank Against ICE. Demonstrators passionately carried signs with slogans such as “Defend Free Speech” and “ABC Bends the Knee to Fascism.” Their action showed ironclad support with Kimmel.
In the midst of these controversies, law enforcement responded to a shooting incident with gunfire at an ABC affiliate station in Sacramento. The Kimmel shooting was on the same day that Eisner publicly declared his support for Kimmel. Police arrested one suspect immediately after the incident. This event heightened worries about safety and security associated with the continued debate over Kimmel’s show.
With talks still ongoing between Kimmel and Disney brass, the fate of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” is up in the air. On all these fronts, stakeholders in both Hollywood and political circles are keeping a close watch on developments.