The decision to pull Kimmel’s show off air came after his monologue drawing attention for its remarks about Charlie Kirk’s death and the alleged amplification of political division by “the MAGA gang”. Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr had earlier warned about possible repercussions including licence revocation for the network over the comments.
Maslany posted an image on social media captured during work on She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, with the simple caption: “Cancel your @disneyplus @hulu @espn subscriptions!”. She joins other entertainment figures calling for BoycottDisney-rooted action. Showrunner Damon Lindelof stated he would refuse to work with Disney until ABC reverses the suspension, describing Kimmel as “empathetic and grateful” and voicing outrage at what he deems suppression of free speech. Apart from Maslany and Lindelof, actors including Amy Landecker and Frances Fisher have cancelled subscriptions or pledged protests; Jean Smart has publicly condemned what she sees as a silencing of dissent.
Political leaders have weighed in. Former President Donald Trump praised ABC’s move, calling it “great news”, while others from across the spectrum voiced concern over encroachments on freedom of expression. Critics argue that political pressure played a large role in ABC’s decision, including pressure from the FCC. Nexstar Media Group, which operates hundreds of local stations, announced it would no longer carry Jimmy Kimmel Live!.
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