FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's criticism of Jimmy Kimmel's recent remarks has led to ABC pulling "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" from its broadcast lineup, effective immediately. The decision follows Carr's comments on The Benny Show podcast, where he suggested potential consequences for ABC regarding Kimmel's statements about the murder of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Explainer Local Stations Challenge Hollywood With Suspension of Kimmel's Show
Kimmel's comments, made during a monologue, included claims that the alleged assassin was affiliated with the MAGA movement. Critics have labeled these remarks as misleading and harmful, prompting calls for Kimmel to apologize publicly.
"We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them," Kimmel stated during the broadcast.
In response to Kimmel's comments, Nexstar Media Group, a major ABC affiliate, announced it would preempt Kimmel's show for the foreseeable future. "Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse," said Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar’s broadcasting division.
Carr emphasized the importance of broadcasters adhering to FCC regulations that prohibit the dissemination of false information, particularly concerning crimes. He stated, "The public interest means you can’t be running a narrow, partisan circus and still be meeting your public interest obligations."
The FCC regulations specify that broadcasting false information can violate rules if the broadcaster knew the information was false and if it caused substantial public harm. Critics argue that Kimmel's comments fit this description, asserting that they misrepresented facts surrounding the incident.
Sinclair, Inc., the largest ABC affiliate group, also condemned Kimmel's remarks. In a statement, Sinclair Vice Chairman Jason Smith called Kimmel's comments "inappropriate and deeply insensitive" and announced that Sinclair stations would air a tribute to Charlie Kirk during Kimmel's timeslot.
Carr noted that the landscape of media is shifting, stating, "We’re sort of exiting an era where the three main legacy broadcast networks could control and dictate the narrative to the American people." He pointed to recent changes in programming and funding for various media outlets as evidence of this shift.
As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how ABC will respond to the backlash and whether Kimmel will address the calls for an apology. The decision to pull the show marks a significant moment in the ongoing conversation about media responsibility and the impact of partisan commentary on public discourse.
Why it matters
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's criticism led to ABC's immediate removal of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', highlighting tensions between media and regulatory bodies.
- Kimmel's comments on a murder linked to the MAGA movement sparked backlash, raising concerns over misinformation in political discourse.
- Nexstar and Sinclair, major ABC affiliates, condemned Kimmel's remarks, indicating a shift in media accountability and public sentiment.
What’s next
- ABC may face further scrutiny from the FCC regarding compliance with broadcasting regulations.
- Calls for Kimmel to issue a public apology continue, with potential impacts on his show's future.
- Watch for responses from ABC and Kimmel regarding the backlash and possible programming changes.
