U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the suspension of talk-show host Jimmy Kimmel and suggested broadcasters should lose licenses over negative coverage, intensifying a national debate on free speech and government pressure.
ABC suspended late-night host Jimmy Kimmel following conservative uproar over his remarks about assassinated activist Charlie Kirk. The move drew swift criticism from writers, performers, and former U.S. President Barack Obama, who called it capitulation to government coercion. About 150 protesters gathered outside Kimmel’s Hollywood studio on Thursday (18 September), holding signs and denouncing Disney’s decision.
Trump’s remarks in London
Speaking alongside British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump labelled Kimmel “untalented” and attacked him for comments on Kirk. Later, onboard Air Force One, Trump said TV stations should have their licenses reviewed, accusing broadcasters of giving him only negative publicity.
FCC and political pressure
Kimmel’s suspension came after FCC Chair Brendan Carr threatened to investigate his commentary. Owners of local TV affiliates, including Nexstar and Sinclair, signalled they would stop airing his show. Federal law bars the FCC from revoking licenses based on unfavourable coverage, but critics say Trump’s repeated threats undermine constitutional protections.
Broader debate
Kirk’s murder has polarised U.S. opinion. Trump allies have demanded critics show respect for Kirk, while opponents argue the administration is weaponising regulation to silence dissent. Obama, unions, and the ACLU said the suspension represented an assault on First Amendment rights. Protesters in Hollywood warned the country was “going in a really wrong direction” if satire and criticism are punished.
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U.S. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump were rushed out of the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner by Secret Service agents after a 31 year old suspect attempted to storm event.
More than 1,000 firefighters are battling to contain two major wildfires in northern Japan for a fourth consecutive day, as flames advance towards residential areas and force thousands to flee.
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Argentina has reiterated its interest in resuming talks with the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands, a disputed archipelago in the South Atlantic, after reports that an internal Pentagon email suggested reviewing Washington’s support for the UK’s claim amid tensions over the Iran war.
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