Bob Iger says Kimmel suspension was not political

Former Disney CEO Bob Iger has stated that ABC's decision to suspend late-night host Jimmy Kimmel in September 2025 was not politically motivated, but was instead a response to jokes deemed in poor taste. Iger made the remarks in an interview published last Saturday, clarifying the rationale behind the network's controversial move.

The suspension followed Kimmel's monologue on September 15, 2025, in which he commented on the political discourse surrounding the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk days earlier. Kimmel criticized what he called the "MAGA gang" for trying to characterize the suspect as anything other than a supporter and for attempting to score political points from the tragedy. He also showed footage of then-President Donald Trump discussing White House construction plans in the wake of Kirk's death, joking about the stages of grief.

The comments prompted immediate backlash. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr suggested ABC's broadcast license could be reviewed, and major station owners Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group pulled "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" from their ABC affiliates. Facing pressure, ABC announced on September 17,...