ABC’s ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ Replaced by ‘Celebrity Family Feud’ Following Host’s Controversial Comments
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ABC’s late-night talk show, ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’, has been temporarily replaced by ‘Celebrity Family Feud’ after host Jimmy Kimmel made comments about the tragic death of right-wing political commentator Charlie Kirk. The decision to place the show on indefinite hiatus was confirmed by a spokesperson for Disney’s ABC on Wednesday, Sept. 17, stirring a wave of reactions from fans and celebrities alike.
Kimmel’s remarks about the shooting incident involving Kirk, who was killed during a speaking engagement at Utah Valley University, sparked controversy. The host’s comments on his show on Monday were perceived by some as divisive, with Kimmel accusing certain political groups of exploiting the tragedy for their own gain. The fallout from these remarks led to the unprecedented decision to pull the show from its scheduled airtime.
In response to ABC’s move, the network informed its affiliate station partners that repeat episodes of ‘Celebrity Family Feud’ would be aired in place of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ on Wednesday and Thursday nights. This shift in programming was accompanied by a statement hinting at future guidance from Disney/ABC regarding the show’s status. Additionally, Sinclair, a major ABC affiliate group, announced plans to broadcast a special segment in honour of Charlie Kirk on Friday, underscoring the sensitivity of the situation.
The fallout extended beyond ABC, with Nexstar Media expressing strong objections to Kimmel’s comments and announcing the replacement of his show with alternative programming in their ABC-affiliated markets. The widespread response to Kimmel’s controversial remarks has ignited a broader conversation around accountability in media and the responsibilities of public figures in addressing sensitive issues.
Celebrity reactions to the news have been mixed, with stars such as Ben Stiller, Sophia Bush, Don Lemon, Kathy Griffin, and Wanda Sykes weighing in on social media. Sykes, who was scheduled to appear on ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’, shared a video expressing her perspective on the situation and urging support for Kimmel during this challenging time.
As the controversy continues to unfold, the future of ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ remains uncertain, with questions lingering about the show’s potential return and the broader implications of this incident on the landscape of late-night television. The incident serves as a reminder of the power and impact of words in the public sphere, prompting reflection on the role of media personalities in shaping public discourse.
In conclusion, the decision to replace ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ with ‘Celebrity Family Feud’ marks a significant moment in the ongoing debate over free speech, accountability, and responsible media practices. The repercussions of Kimmel’s comments and ABC’s response have reverberated throughout the entertainment industry, underscoring the complexities of navigating controversial topics in the public eye.
It remains to be seen how this episode will shape the future of late-night television and the broader cultural conversation around politics, tragedy, and the media’s role in shaping public perception. As audiences and industry insiders grapple with the fallout from this incident, the need for thoughtful and measured discourse on these issues has never been more apparent.