Support Grows for Jimmy Kimmel Amid Suspension
Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show has been suspended indefinitely by ABC following his remarks about Charlie Kirk shooting suspect, Tyler Robinson. In response, numerous prominent Hollywood figures are rallying behind him.
Pedro Pascal’s Stance
Actor Pedro Pascal expressed his support on Instagram, endorsing the idea of defending free speech and democracy while sharing a photo of himself with Kimmel from a previous show appearance.
Boycotts in Solidarity
Following Pascal’s post, other Marvel stars initiated a boycott against Disney and its subsidiaries. Marisa Tomei, known for her role in the Spider-Man franchise, encouraged followers to unsubscribe from platforms owned by the Walt Disney Company, including Marvel, ABC, and Hulu.
Voices from the Marvel Universe
Tatiana Maslany, star of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, called on her fans to cancel their Disney+ subscriptions. Meanwhile, Mark Ruffalo voiced his concerns during an online event, stating that the industry’s freedom of speech is under attack.
Public Demonstrations
In support of Kimmel, protestors gathered outside the Jimmy Kimmel Live! studio and Disney’s headquarters in Burbank, California. A mobile billboard is also set to circulate Los Angeles, promoting messages of solidarity for Kimmel and free speech.
Creative Community Responds
Industry figures like Damon Lindelof expressed outrage regarding Kimmel’s suspension, stating he could not continue working with Disney under these circumstances. Additionally, Kerry Washington praised Kimmel for his longstanding support of other artists and deemed the suspension “unjust.”
Comedians Unite
A collective statement from comedians, including Jimmy Fallon and Chelsea Handler, garnered attention, asserting that current events mark a troubling time for freedom of expression. Handler further emphasized the danger to the First Amendment, referencing controversial comments from other media figures that did not lead to job loss.
Reason Behind the Suspension
Kimmel’s suspension follows criticism from FCC Chair Brendan Carr and Nexstar, which operates several ABC affiliates. This decision highlights ongoing debates regarding censorship and freedom of speech in the entertainment industry.
