Sept. 22 2025, Published 3:00 p.m. ET
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Howard Stern has publicly criticized ABC for the suspension of his close friend and fellow entertainer Jimmy Kimmel, following controversial remarks regarding Charlie Kirk‘s alleged assassin, RadarOnline.com reports.
At the age of 71, Stern is taking a stand, announcing the cancellation of his Disney+ subscription in solidarity with Kimmel, amidst allegations of unwarranted government influence in media content.
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‘ABC’s Decision to Suspend Kimmel’
Following his suspension, Stern stated he reached out to Kimmel, prioritizing his friend’s well-being over discussing professional matters.
During his segment on the SiriusXM radio show, Stern addressed the situation, stating, “ABC threw Jimmy off the air,” and expressed uncertainty about the network’s plans, with speculation that Kimmel might face termination.
Stern mentioned, “I spoke to Jimmy, and I didn’t pry into the situation at ABC; I was more concerned about how he was handling things personally.”
Kimmel’s show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was suspended indefinitely on September 17, prompted by two significant affiliate groups, who opted to stop broadcasting the show after Kimmel’s controversial comments about the alleged murderer of Kirk, Tyler Robinson.
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‘Defending Freedom of Speech’
Stern’s transition to satellite radio in 2006 stemmed from previous conflicts with the FCC regarding his content.
Stern expressed empathy for Kimmel’s plight, stating, “When government entities begin to interfere, it’s a troubling trajectory for this country.” He lamented that ABC should not be forced into a position of punishing Kimmel for speaking out and emphasized the necessity for resistance against corporate capitulation.
As an act of protest, Stern disclosed his intention to cancel his Disney+ subscription, asserting, “I want to express my disapproval with my wallet regarding how they’re treating Jimmy.”
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‘Controversial Comments and Backlash’
Kimmel’s remarks inferring that Kirk’s killer was affiliated with the MAGA movement were particularly incendiary.
Kimmel’s show faced suspension after Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Inc. declared that their ABC affiliates would refrain from airing the program, protesting Kimmel’s commentary surrounding Kirk’s assassination.
In his opening monologue on September 15, Kimmel accused the “MAGA gang” of attempting to deflect the narrative surrounding the killer in order to exploit the situation for political gains.
Sinclair’s response was swift, indicating that they would halt airing Kimmel’s show until further notice, citing “problematic comments regarding the murder of Charlie Kirk.” The statement also demanded that Kimmel issue an apology to Kirk’s family and a financial contribution to Turning Point USA.
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‘Potential FCC Involvement’
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Brendan Carr was appointed by former President Trump to lead the FCC.
The swift actions of Nexstar and Sinclair followed remarks from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who condemned Kimmel’s comments as “the sickest conduct possible.” He hinted at scrutinizing the broadcast licenses of the involved stations, suggesting, “We can handle this smoothly or face significant repercussions.”
Carr warned that failure to address Kimmel’s conduct might result in increased regulatory actions from the FCC.
Kirk was tragically killed on September 10 during an event at Utah Valley University, leading to debates that have fueled tensions between political ideologies. Robinson was apprehended shortly thereafter, allegedly revealing in a conversation that he could no longer tolerate Kirk’s rhetoric.
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