Bob Iger says Jimmy Kimmel‘s suspension was not driven by political pressure. The former Disney chief insists the network acted because of the comedian’s remarks. The controversy surrounding Kimmel’s brief absence from ABC resurfaced this week after Iger publicly addressed the issue for the first time.
Former Disney CEO shares what was the actual reason behind Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension
According to former Disney CEO Bob Iger, ABC’s decision came down to the nature and timing of Kimmel’s comments following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Speaking to the Financial Times, Iger rejected claims that Disney suspended the host to appease the Trump administration. “That was not the case,” Iger said. Instead, he explained that company leadership believed the remarks were in “bad taste” and felt Kimmel should acknowledge that they were inappropriate given the circumstances.
The controversy dates back to September 2025, when conservative commentator and Donald Trump ally Kirk was fatally shot during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. A few days later, Jimmy Kimmel addressed the public reaction on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and touched on the debate surrounding the suspect’s political views. He argued that “the MAGA gang” was “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them (via Variety).”
Those remarks quickly set off a firestorm online and in political circles. The situation escalated further when FCC Chairman Brendan Carr warned that broadcasters could face closer scrutiny if media companies didn’t properly address concerns.
At the same time, major station groups Nexstar and Sinclair announced they would not air Kimmel’s program. ABC soon halted production of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, though the suspension lasted only five days before the show returned. Iger said executives wanted Kimmel to recognize that the remarks were “ill-timed” and “probably inappropriate.”
Jimmy Kimmel is one of the most recognizable figures in late-night television. Before launching Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2003, he gained popularity through projects such as The Man Show and his work on the radio. Over the years, he has become known for celebrity interviews, comedy segments, and his political commentary.
