ABC Suspends Jimmy Kimmel Live! Indefinitely Amid Controversy
ABC has taken the unprecedented step of pulling Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air "indefinitely" amid mounting controversy, raising questions about the future of its other programming, including the upcoming Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? reboot as it approaches the end of Season 4.
Why Was Jimmy Kimmel Live! Pulled?
The suspension follows Kimmel's comments on the September 15 episode of his show, where he discussed Donald Trump’s response to Charlie Kirk’s death. His remarks received swift condemnation from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who suggested it could jeopardize ABC's broadcast license.
In response, Nexstar Media Group—seeking FCC approval for a $6.2 billion acquisition—announced that all ABC affiliates would preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! "for the foreseeable future," with ABC soon following suit.
Public and Celebrity Reactions
The decision sparked widespread public outcry. Notable figures like Pedro Pascal and former President Barack Obama expressed support for Kimmel, condemning the move as an attack on free speech. The show's future remains uncertain, but it raises the pressing question: what about the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? reboot?
Is Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? Canceled?
As of now, there is no credible evidence to suggest that ABC plans to cancel Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?. The network has not made any official statements indicating plans to pull the game show, and the Season 4 finale remains scheduled.
Background on the Show
- ABC revived Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? in 2020 for its 20th anniversary, with Jimmy Kimmel as host.
- The reboot has produced three more seasons since, with Season 4 premiering on July 23, 2025.
- There are currently eight episodes released, with a scheduled finale on September 25, 2025, at 8 pm ET.
Official Stance
An ABC source clarified that there are "no plans" to pull the game show, despite Kimmel hosting both programs on the same network. The decision remains to be seen, especially considering the ongoing controversy surrounding Kimmel’s suspension.
Future of Jimmy Kimmel Live!
The future of Jimmy Kimmel Live! remains uncertain. Bloomberg reports that Disney executives are scheduled to meet with Kimmel to discuss the show's fate. The public backlash, including calls for boycotts and support from celebrities, has added fuel to the ongoing debate over free speech and censorship.
Celebrity and Political Reactions
- Pedro Pascal posted a photo with Kimmel, advocating for free speech.
- Barack Obama condemned the suspension as government coercion.
- Late-night hosts like Jimmy Fallon, Stephen Colbert, and Seth Meyers voiced support for Kimmel and criticized the censorship.
Next Steps
Sources suggest that Disney hopes to bring Kimmel's show back, possibly as soon as September 22. However, the final decision depends on negotiations and finding a path that satisfies both supporters and critics.
Summary
While Jimmy Kimmel Live! is currently suspended indefinitely and its immediate future uncertain, there is no official word on whether the Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? reboot will be affected. The coming days will reveal whether ABC will reverse its decision and whether Kimmel’s show will return to the air.
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Note: All information is current as of September 17, 2025, and subject to change as new developments arise.