FCC Chair Carr Responds Urgently to Kimmel’s Reinstatement
UPDATE: FCC Chair Brendan Carr has reacted sharply to ABC’s decision to reinstate late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, who is set to return to screens tonight after a controversial suspension. Carr’s comments, made on September 26, 2023, come in the wake of public backlash over Kimmel’s remarks regarding conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
In a post on X, Carr criticized the Democrats, accusing them of “Projection and Distortion” in their response to Kimmel’s suspension. His remarks underscore the heated political climate surrounding media freedom and the role of networks like ABC, which is owned by The Walt Disney Company.
Kimmel was suspended last Wednesday, with Disney labeling his comments as “ill-timed and thus insensitive.” The company stated that the suspension aimed to prevent further escalation of tensions at a critical moment for the nation. Kimmel’s return is highly anticipated, with millions of viewers expected to tune in.
Carr’s statements have reignited discussions about media accountability. Earlier in the week, he indicated that local TV stations should stand against national programming pressure, stating, “a good thing” that any local TV stations have pushed back on a national programmer like Disney. This reflects ongoing debates about the balance of power in media.
California State Senator Scott Weiner weighed in, suggesting a breakup of Sinclair, ABC’s largest affiliate, which has announced plans to replace Kimmel’s show with news programming. Sinclair is still evaluating Kimmel’s potential return, leaving viewers in suspense.
In a podcast with conservative influencer Benny Johnson, Carr previously warned of potential FCC action if networks do not address concerns over Kimmel’s conduct. His comments garnered bipartisan backlash, including strong criticism from Senator Ted Cruz, who described Carr’s warnings as “dangerous.”
As Kimmel prepares for his comeback, the implications of this incident extend beyond entertainment. It touches on critical issues of free speech and the responsibilities of media companies in today’s polarized environment.
As developments unfold, eyes will be on Kimmel’s return and the potential repercussions for ABC and Disney in light of this controversy. What happens next could reshape the landscape of late-night television and its relationship with political discourse. Stay tuned for more updates as the story develops.
