Seth Meyers has spoken out in support of Jimmy Kimmel after ABC indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live!. The suspension followed a monologue by Kimmel in which he criticized “MAGA gang” supporters for trying to distance themselves from the person who shot and killed conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at a Utah Valley University event on September 10.
On his September 18 episode of Late Night, Meyers used his “A Closer Look” segment to address the controversy and U.S. President Donald Trump’s attacks on free speech. He began with a satirical tribute to Trump, joking, “I’ve always admired and respected Mr. Trump… and if you’ve ever seen me say anything negative about him, that’s just AI.”
Shifting to a more serious tone, Meyers said, “It is a privilege and an honour to call Jimmy Kimmel my friend.” He went on to express his gratitude for living in a country that values free speech, adding, “we’re going to keep doing our show with enthusiasm and integrity.” Meyers called the controversy “a big moment in our democracy” and encouraged Americans to protect free expression, reminding them, “There’s a reason free speech is in the very first amendment.”
Kimmel has not yet publicly commented on the suspension. Meanwhile, Sinclair Broadcasting, which is the largest group of ABC affiliates, has stated it will not reinstate the show unless three conditions are met: ABC must discuss accountability with Sinclair, Kimmel must apologize directly to Kirk’s family, and he must make a personal donation to both the family and Turning Point USA.
