Home / Arts and Entertainment / Kimmel Suspension Sparks Outrage: More Defend Than Criticize
Kimmel Suspension Sparks Outrage: More Defend Than Criticize
25 Feb
Summary
- Over 1600 letters sent to the FCC regarding a late-night host's suspension.
- Most complaints criticized the FCC and network's reaction, not the host's remarks.
- Suspension saw reported spikes in Disney+ and Hulu cancellations.
The late-night television landscape is experiencing a period of intense discussion and viewer engagement, particularly following a recent controversy involving host Jimmy Kimmel. After making remarks on September 15, 2025, related to a political commentator's death, Kimmel faced suspension from ABC.
This suspension led to a substantial public outcry, with more than 1,645 letters submitted to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Contrary to expectations, only a small fraction of these communications expressed disapproval of Kimmel's comments. Instead, the overwhelming majority of the correspondence targeted the FCC and ABC.
Many letters criticized FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's comments, which appeared to instigate the suspension. Viewers expressed that the reaction was disproportionate to the offense, leading to a surge in complaints about the network's actions. This sentiment was echoed by a reported increase in cancellations of Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions following the suspension.
The events surrounding Kimmel's suspension suggest a public sentiment that prioritizes the defense of free speech and criticizes perceived overreactions by regulatory bodies and media corporations. This situation raises questions about how similar incidents will be handled in the future.
