ABC has suspended production on its late-night show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely after the comedian made comments critical of President Trump and conservative leaders. The FCC Chair, Brendan Carr, called Kimmel’s comments “truly sick” and threatened to take action.
A poll conducted by Boston.com found that 66% of readers disagreed with ABC’s decision to remove Kimmel from the air, citing freedom of speech as a bedrock American value. Many readers defended Kimmel, saying his criticism was not aimed at Charlie Kirk, but rather at Trump’s supporters using the tragedy for political gain.
Others pointed out that Kimmel’s comments were an expression of free speech and did not cross the line into incitement or violence. Some readers suggested that Kimmel should be allowed to return to the air with a sincere apology and a commitment to self-regulation.
The debate raises questions about the limits of free speech in modern society, particularly when it comes to comedy and satire. While some argue that ABC overstepped by removing Kimmel from the air, others see the move as a necessary measure to protect the public from inflammatory rhetoric.
As one reader noted, “Free speech protects you from government overreach, but it does not exist without consequences.” The incident highlights the complex relationship between free speech and responsibility in today’s society.
Source: https://www.boston.com/community/readers-say/2025/09/19/jimmy-kimmel-readers-say