Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner has publicly criticized ABC's indefinite suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, sparking a debate about free speech and corporate power. Eisner's comments, shared on X, followed ABC's confirmation of Kimmel's suspension for remarks made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. He questioned the lack of leadership in the face of what he perceived as intimidation, stating, "Where has all the leadership gone? If not for university presidents, law firm managing partners, and corporate chief executives standing up against bullies, who then will step up for the first amendment?"
Eisner directly challenged ABC's decision, linking Kimmel's suspension to pressure from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who had previously condemned Kimmel's comments as "some of the sickest conduct possible." Eisner argued that the suspension was an example of "out-of-control intimidation" and suggested a cynical amendment to the Constitution reflecting corporate self-interest in speech restrictions. He explicitly voiced his support for Kimmel, calling him "very talented and funny."
Kimmel's monologue, which prompted the controversy, speculated on the potential political exploitation of Kirk's death by allies of President Trump. This incident follows a pattern of companies sanctioning employees for public statements on the matter. Disney has yet to respond to Eisner's criticism. The situation raises critical questions about the boundaries of free speech in the context of corporate media and political discourse. The indefinite suspension of Kimmel leaves the future of his show uncertain, adding fuel to the already fiery debate surrounding the incident.
---
Originally published at: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jimmy-kimmel-michael-eisner-disney-abc-suspension-fcc/
