The First Amendment demonstrates that all should have the following: freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and the right to petition the government. Originally, the First Amendment forbade the government from censoring speech, if government officials or members pressure any company to censor conversations or expressions.
On September 17th, 2025, Jimmy Kimmel came onto his show like any other regular day, although his comments seemed to have offended many more people than usual. That night, Kimmel made several statements regarding his own opinions. These statements were aimed towards republicans and conservatives (MAGA supporters).
During his show, Jimmy Kimmel usually presents a comedic monologue, interviews celebrities, and sometimes brings in artists for musical performances. Kimmel is well known for his amusing jokes and entertaining acts.
Jimmy Kimmel, an American television host and comedian, works for The Walt Disney Company through the ABC Television Network and produces his own show, Jimmy Kimmel Live.
Many people, especially conservatives, took this as an attack and a target for them. This led to all news platforms covering this topic. In response, Brendan Carr, FCC chairman, suggested the government agency attack ABC until Kimmel was held accountable for his ‘actions’.
Due to political and personal pressure, ABC decided to suspend The Kimmel show until further notice.
Although the suspension only lasted until September 23, 2025, some associates had originally refused to air their show on television. Networks left a gap of a couple of days until the release so that they could ease back into their daily routine.
Both sides fought back and made comments to each other and the networks. Although each side has a good argument for what they believe and who they think is in the wrong place, the conservatives who believe that Kimmel should have bigger consequences bring up some good points.
The First Amendment states that the press clauses prevent speech from being censored by the government. However, it does not directly protect people from actions taken by television networks.
Conservatives have stated that Kimmel’s punishment was more of a business consequence, rather than an attack against freedom of speech.
Although this may be true, speakers on shows and television fear punishment from the government. Also, cultural cancellation of TV stars and hosts can discourage others from sharing their own controversial opinions.
Experts, free speech advocates, and ‘liberals’ have all raised concerns that the government officials are using their power to threaten not just Kimmel’s company but also others.
In the Constitution, government officials can criticize commentators. However, that does not apply to using their official authorities to pressure companies into silencing their speech. If any official were to do this, it would be unconstitutional.
As we see this issue of Kimmel’s cancellation, we also see more and more situations similar to this in today’s society.
If you are looking for more information about this, click the link to check out Reporter Michael Harris’s Article, Jimmy Kimmel Returns!
