Former US president Barack Obama has accused Donald Trump’s administration of using “government coercion” to silence critics. This was after ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely.
The late-night host faced suspension following comments he made about the assassination of right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk.
Kimmel said this about Trump’s response: “This is not how an adult grieves the murder of a friend.
This is how a four-year-old mourns a goldfish.” His remarks sparked outrage among Trump allies, according to Sky News.
FCC chairman Brendan Carr then warned broadcasters that if networks did not act, the Commission would “look into remedies”.
Carr told a conservative podcast: “These companies can find ways to change conduct and take action. Frankly, on Kimmel, or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.”
BARACK OBAMA RESPONDS
Barack Obama responded forcefully. Writing on X, he said: “After years of complaining about cancel culture, the current administration has taken it to a new and dangerous level.
They are routinely threatening regulatory action against media companies unless they muzzle or fire commentators it doesn’t like.” He urged media outlets to “stand up rather than capitulate”.
DONALD TRUMP ON JIMMY KIMMEL
Donald Trump welcomed the removal. Speaking on Air Force One, he argued: “Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings, more than anything else.
He had no talent and should have been fired a long time ago.” He also hinted that ABC’s broadcast licence could be under review, according to Fortune.
ABC AND THE BUSINESS OF NETWORKS
Disney-owned ABC faces further complications as it seeks government approval for ESPN’s R116 billion acquisition of the NFL Network.
Affiliate operator Nexstar also wants approval for its R116 billion purchase of broadcast rival Tegna.
CELEBRITIES AND UNIONS REACT TO THE NEWS
Celebrities such as Ben Stiller and Alison Brie defended Kimmel. They described the suspension as “unreal” and “scary”.
Unions including SAG-AFTRA also issued a joint statement warning: “This kind of political pressure chills free speech and threatens livelihoods.”
For people watching US politics, the row raises sharp questions. Can a government lean on broadcasters without undermining democracy?