Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks about Charlie Kirk have resulted in an immediate and indefinite suspension. A statement about the decision to suspend the long-time late-night show host and star of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” was released on September 17.
In the statement, Nexstar stated it “strongly objects to recent comments made by Mr. Kimmel concerning the killing of Charlie Kirk and will replace the show with other programming in its ABC-affiliated markets.”
Billy Eichner Voices Support for Jimmy Kimmel
Despite Kimmel’s cancellation, he has found support in many celebrities and fans, who have spoken publicly in a show of support. Among those who are on Kimmel’s side is actor and comedian Billy Eichner. He shared his thoughts in a passionate commentary published on Rolling Stone on September 21.
Eichner began his statement by addressing Kimmel’s suspension. “Jimmy Kimmel‘s suspension under these circumstances is a fundamental attack on each individual American, regardless of party affiliation, regardless of whether or not you even vote,” he wrote. “It affects every single American’s ability to lead the life they want to lead, to think whatever they want to think. I truly believe it is that fundamental.”
Eichner went on to stress the importance of freedom of speech and the right to express oneself freely. “It really goes so far beyond late-night talk-show hosts or comedians,” he wrote. “The message I want to send is that just because you’re not a professional comedian or you’re not in Hollywood doesn’t mean you are not deeply affected by the eventual consequences of not speaking up against this, of allowing this to happen.”
The Importance of Freedom of Speech
Eichner’s speech is long and passionate, and it is also politically charged. The full letter can be read on Rolling Stone, but his message is clear, and he has stated how he feels on the matter, which he believes is much bigger than Kimmel.
On September 18, Eichner also showed his support for Kimmel in a post on Instagram. He shared a photo of himself taken from the show. He referred to Kimmel as his “friend” in the caption.
Eichner is not the only one who has reacted to Kimmel’s suspension with comments about the need for freedom of speech. Talk show host Jay Leno also showed his support for Kimmel in an interview with Us Weekly on September 18.
“You don’t get canceled saying popular things. Usually it’s the truth that winds up getting [you] canceled, so we’ll see what happens,” Leno told Us Weekly. He also said he was on Kimmel’s side.
Don’t say anything nasty or controversial after a man was murdered in cold blood in front of thousands of fans. Always put yourself in someone else’s shoes. How about a “joke” about your 9year old son commenting on his appearance????? NOT GOOD
So we can say anything with no repercussions or boundaries? Don’t think so. Would a comedian use the N word on tv? Didn’t think so. Take your liberal Hollywood bullshit and narcissistic playmates and go to hell!