🔗 Share this article

Upon stating that it would suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s programme, TV station operator Nexstar Communications Group labeled the comedian’s remarks about Charlie Kirk’s death as “tasteless and unfeeling” amid a pivotal moment in national political dialogue.

Supporters of Donald Trump praised the action, with the deputy White House chief labeling it an example of “consequence culture”.

But what specifically did Jimmy Kimmel say that provoked the Maga movement?

In his Monday night monologue, Kimmel suggested that Kirk’s suspected killer, Tyler Robinson, was possibly a pro-Trump Republican.

“The Maga crowd is working hard to distance themselves from the shooter, even as they exploit the situation for political gain,” Kimmel stated.

The particular comment seems to have enraged Trump supporters and government figures the most.

Speaking earlier on Wednesday, the Trump-appointed head of the US media regulator suggested it appeared a “concerted effort to deceive the American public.”

Brendan Carr went on to call Kimmel’s remarks as an attempt to “support a narrative that the perpetrator was somehow driven by Maga or Republican ideals.”

Carr additionally cautioned that if action were not implemented against Kimmel, there would be “further action for the FCC ahead.”

“It’s long past the time that broadcasters announce, ‘We’re not gonna run Kimmel anymore over the possibility of sanctions or license revocation from the FCC,’” Carr stated.

Lawmaker Ed Markey criticized the development as “active censorship”.

“The FCC chair threatens ABC and Disney over Kimmel’s comments. Shortly after, he’s off air. It’s concerning and a breach of rights. The warning to every media organization is clear: Adopt the MAGA line or the Federal Censorship Commission will penalize you,” Markey said.

Jimmy Kimmel also mentioned the backlash to Kirk’s killing on his Tuesday episode, noting that “plenty on the right are making efforts to capitalize on the death of Charlie Kirk”.

Mentioning second-in-command JD Vance’s comment while guest-hosting Kirk’s podcast, Kimmel remarked that “Trump and his allies are doing their best to fan the flames, so they can presumably attack people on the progressive side.”

Insiders state that Kimmel was getting ready to discuss the reaction on that evening’s show and explain how his remarks had been misinterpreted. Kimmel was reportedly not intending to issue an apology for them.