TLT Explains

Local Stations Challenge Hollywood With Suspension of Kimmel's Show

By The Liberty Tribune Staff

Published: 9/19/2025 · Updated: 9/19/2025 · 5 min read

ABC has suspended Jimmy Kimmels late-night indefinitely, a decision influenced by broadcasters who opted.

What's happening

Local Stations Challenge Hollywood With Suspension of Kimmel's Show — Protesters at a recent "No Kings" demonstration expressed extreme sentiments, including calls for violence against political opponents, particularly former President Donald Trump. Signs carried by attendees included direct threats and references to the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, who was recently killed. (A) Trump’s ear (B) Erika’s heart," referring to Kirk's widow. Explainer Assassination of Charlie Kirk Spurs National Debate on Political Violence and Utah Death Penalty Videos from the event showed individuals mocking Kirk's death, with one woman acting out the moment he was shot. Reports have identified her as Lucy Martinez, a teacher at Nathan Hale Elementary School in Chicago, prompting her school to shut down its website and accounts following public backlash. Critics have raised concerns about the implications of hiring educators who engage in political activism rather than focusing on academic achievement. Observers noted that the protest atmosphere encouraged children to embrace violence as a form of political expression, with one child seen celebrating after hitting a likeness of Trump. Protesters displayed signs with messages such as "Would you like to kill Nazis with me?" and called for violence against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. On Tuesday, former President Donald Trump posthumously awarded Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom on what would have been Kirk’s 32nd birthday. Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was recognized for his advocacy of freedom and moral responsibility.

What's at stake

Explainer Trump Designates Antifa as Domestic Terrorist Organization Amid Protests in Oregon Kirk’s wife, Erika, accepted the award on his behalf, emphasizing her husband's commitment to the principles of freedom. "The very existence of the of Freedom reminds us that the national interest of the United States has always been freedom," ( ) Erika stated. She highlighted that the Founders enshrined this belief in the preamble of the Constitution, calling it a "living covenant." In her remarks, Erika Kirk noted that her husband believed liberty was both a right and a responsibility. She quoted him, saying, "Freedom is the ability to do what is right without fear," ( ) and added that he often remarked that "without God, freedom becomes chaos." Kirk's perspective on freedom contrasts sharply with that of some critics, particularly those aligned with the modern Democratic Party. Supporters argue that Kirk's vision of freedom includes a moral framework, while critics contend that his views reflect a narrow interpretation of liberty that overlooks individual autonomy. Critics of the Democratic Party have pointed to policies such as universal basic income, which they argue disconnects hard work from rewards. They cite the 's decision to allow states to suspend work requirements for certain welfare programs as an example of what they see as a departure from personal responsibility. Caitlin Bassett, a writer for The Federalist, noted that progressive prosecutors in various cities have stopped prosecuting certain offenses in the name of equity. President Donald Trump will posthumously award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Tuesday, recognizing his contributions to American political discourse and civic engagement.

Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was killed on September 10 while speaking at a college campus in Utah. Explainer Assassination of Charlie Kirk Spurs National Debate on Political Violence and Utah Death Penalty The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, or cultural endeavors. In a statement, Trump said, " changed the landscape of American politics by empowering young people to stand up for their beliefs and engage in meaningful dialogue. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations." ( ) Critics have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding Kirk's death, alleging that his assassination was linked to his outspoken views. Reports indicate that he was targeted by an individual with left-wing ideologies. Kirk's posthumous award aims to highlight his impact on young Americans and conservative activism. Kirk was known for mobilizing youth engagement in politics through , which he founded in 2012 at the age of 18. The organization has grown to become a leading conservative group, encouraging thousands of young Americans to participate in civic activism. What to watch next is whether new filings, agency actions, votes, or court decisions change the timeline—and how officials respond in the weeks ahead.

Why it matters

The coverage highlights: Tennessee Teacher Reinstated After Controversial Social Media Post. The coverage highlights: Leftist Demonstrators Call For Murder Of Trump. The coverage highlights: Charlie Kirk Posthumously Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom. The coverage highlights: Trump to Posthumously Award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The coverage highlights: Debate Erupts Over Charlie Kirk's Legacy Following His Death. The coverage highlights: Concerns Grow Over Political Violence and Censorship on the Left.

Key facts & context

2025-11-17: Tennessee Teacher Reinstated After Controversial Social Media Post. 2025-10-20: Leftist Demonstrators Call For Murder Of Trump. 2025-10-15: Charlie Kirk Posthumously Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom. 2025-10-13: Trump to Posthumously Award Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom. 2025-10-06: Debate Erupts Over Charlie Kirk's Legacy Following His Death. 2025-10-03: Concerns Grow Over Political Violence and Censorship on the Left. 2025-09-23: 66 ABC Affiliates Will Not Air Jimmy Kimmel Following Nexstar's Decision. 2025-09-23: Sinclair Still Won't Air Kimmel Until He Apologizes To Kirk's Family. 2025-09-19: Jimmy Kimmel Suspended Amid Controversy Over Comments. 2025-09-19: Local Stations Challenge Hollywood with Suspension of Kimmel's Show.

Timeline & key developments

Primary sources

Media Bureau Seeks Refresh Record National Cap Proceeding — fcc.gov