Explainer-Were Jimmy Kimmel's free speech rights violated when ABC canceled his show?


  • World
  • Friday, 19 Sep 2025

People protest outside The Walt Disney Company’s Headquarters, a day after Walt Disney-owned ABC said it was pulling "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" off the air due to threats by the head of the top U.S. communications regulator, because of comments by Kimmel on the assassination of right wing influencer Charlie Kirk, in New York City, U.S., September 18, 2025. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton

WILMINGTON, DEL. (Reuters) -Jimmy Kimmel's late-night talk show was suspended indefinitely by TV broadcaster ABC on Wednesday after his comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk prompted criticism from the head of the top U.S. communications regulator against the broadcaster's parent company Walt Disney.

Below is a look at the U.S. right to free speech and whether Kimmel's rights were violated.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In World

Blast hits mosque during evening prayers in Nigeria’s Maiduguri, witness says
Zimbabwe's economy grows by 9.64 pct in Q3 2025
People trapped in coal mine accident in SW China
Portuguese gov't authorizes 2nd phase TAP privatization
EU says it strongly condemns U.S. visa ban on European individuals
Putin has been briefed on U.S. proposals for Ukraine peace plan, the Kremlin says
Zelenskiy seeks meeting with Trump to hammer out issue of territory
Myanmar's decade of turmoil: elections, coup and conflict
Bangladesh leader seen as likely next prime minister set to return from exile ahead of polls
South Korea special prosecutor indicts ex-president Yoon over opinion polls

Others Also Read