Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, popular comedian and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was suspended for comments he made about the case. ABC, which hosts his late night show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, has recently announced that following his suspension the show would return with Kimmel hosting.
Kimmel had made jokes on both Monday and Tuesday night, one particular joke standing out as he said “many in the MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk.”
Nexstar Communications Group announced they would pull the show from broadcasting after recent backlash on Kimmel’s comments.
“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, the president of Nexstar’s broadcasting.
When Kimmel returned Tuesday, September 23 he choked up talking about Charlie Kirk’s assassination. He claimed his intention was not to make light of Kirk’s assassination. The comedian’s words marked the first time he spoke about the situation since his suspension.
Kimmel’s suspension sparked controversy towards the first amendment rights, focusing on freedom of speech. It also caused debating on modern day cancel culture, and what free speech can even be identified on.
Students at Eleanor Roosevelt expressed their opinions on both matters, the matter of Kimmel’s suspension and the first amendment rights.
One senior, Natalia Garcia, saw the story on TikTok. She expressed her views and ideas behind it.
“It is a very complicated situation, but I think he was wrongfully suspended,” Garcia said, then followed up by saying “Yeah, we have freedom of speech but that is limited based on [if] you’re harming someone or not,” Garcia shares.
The first amendments states “Congress shall make no law…or abridging the freedom of speech or of the press…” which was written in 1789. Society has come a long way since this time, with advancements in technology and new ideas of welfare, social media being included. The first amendment now has new meaning behind it, and now is being challenged behind what it truly means.
When looking at the first amendment, it can be analyzed as people can say whatever they want in America, including posting. However, there are always consequences with what follows what is said and posted. Including risk of losing your job for what you may say from your employer.
Protest have started outside Walt Disney Studio in Burbank. Many hold signs referencing the first amendments and its rights. Some are upset because they speculate Jimmy Kimmel was suspended because of an interference from the government.
Jimmy Kimmel has returned back to his show, making statements revolving around the matter. His recent return had caused his show’s views to sky rocket. Drawing about 6.2 million viewers. Nearly around four times as much as its average watching, New York Time’s stated.
