Hollywood Stars Send Messages of Support After Jimmy Kimmel is Removed from ABC
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In a recent turn of events, Hollywood has been stirred by the news that ABC has pulled the popular late-night show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely. The decision was made following controversial comments made by Jimmy Kimmel regarding the tragic death of right-wing political commentator Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on September 10th. The decision was officially confirmed by a spokesperson for Disney’s ABC on Wednesday, September 17th.
The incident has sparked a wave of reactions from celebrities across Hollywood, who have taken to social media to express their thoughts and opinions on the matter. Comedian Wanda Sykes, who was scheduled to appear on Kimmel’s show, posted a video on Instagram, urging people to pray for Kimmel and highlighting the importance of free speech.
Meanwhile, comedian Mike Birbiglia argued in defence of Kimmel, stating that it is crucial for comedians to speak out against the censorship of free speech. Roseanne Barr offered to step in as a replacement for Kimmel on ABC, emphasising the impact of the decision on the comedy industry. Megyn Kelly raised questions about the reasoning behind ABC’s move, speculating on the public response that led to the show’s removal.
Other prominent figures, such as Chris Hayes, Ben Stiller, Sophia Bush, and Alex Edelman, also weighed in on the situation, expressing their concerns about the erosion of free speech and the rise of censorship in the media. Their collective voices underscore the significance of upholding the principles of free expression in a democratic society.
Notably, politicians like Sen. Cory Booker and Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett added their perspectives to the discussion. Booker shared a post on Instagram featuring the text of the First Amendment, highlighting the importance of protecting free speech rights. Crockett critiqued the decision to pull Kimmel’s show, questioning the motives behind stifling dissenting voices.
Amidst the controversy, actress Kathy Griffin called on the public to stand in solidarity with Kimmel and support his right to free speech. Similarly, Geraldo Rivera and California Gov. Gavin Newsom raised concerns about the broader implications of media censorship and political interference in broadcasting decisions. Their statements underscore the growing tensions surrounding freedom of expression in the current media landscape.
As the debate continues to unfold, various celebrities, including Jean Smart, Don Lemon, and John Legend, have shared their thoughts on social media, expressing dismay at the suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and highlighting the need to safeguard the principles of free speech and honest discourse. The widespread reaction from Hollywood personalities serves as a reminder of the critical importance of defending open dialogue and diverse viewpoints in a democratic society.
In conclusion, the removal of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” from ABC has sparked a robust discussion about the boundaries of free speech, censorship, and the role of media in shaping public discourse. The outpouring of support from Hollywood stars underscores the collective commitment to upholding democratic values and protecting the right to express diverse opinions in the public sphere.