Rosie O'Donnell rages against Jimmy Kimmel's show cancellation

In a controversy that unfolded in September 2025, ABC Network made the abrupt decision to indefinitely pull Jimmy Kimmel's late-night talk show following backlash over comments he made regarding Charlie Kirk’s suspected killer. The cancellation provoked strong reactions from various public figures and celebrities, including Rosie O'Donnell, who took to social media to express her discontent, criticizing not only the media network but also the current administration and corporate executives. O'Donnell labeled the situation as an assault on free speech and claimed that it stemmed from echoes of fascism. She stated her beliefs firmly, illustrating her disdain for any form of censorship that would silence opposing voices in America. Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart also weighed in on the matter during their respective shows, labeling Kimmel's suspension as blatant censorship, with Colbert declaring solidarity with Kimmel and expressing his belief that such censorship is a slippery slope. Both hosts highlighted the importance of defending free speech and noted how the entertainment industry is being affected by political pressures, drawing attention to the broader implications of this incident for late-night television and the creative liberties of its hosts. Colbert emphasized that the move should not satisfy those pushing for such restrictions, warning against complacency in the face of censorship. Additionally, the situation highlighted a growing divide within political affiliations on social media, with many supporting a unified work stoppage at Disney/ABC, advocating for all employees to refuse work until Kimmel's show is reinstated. This suggested the potential for significant unrest within the entertainment industry, forcing corporations to confront their stances on creative freedom in the face of growing political pressures. The MAGA supporters and far-left activists displayed an unusual consensus around the discontent related to the decision, indicating a moment of unity that was once divided along different ideological lines. This collective response from both sides of the political spectrum serves as a testament to the reach and impact of Kimmel’s comments regarding a heated political discourse, potentially reshaping dialogues around free speech and censorship in America. As the narrative around Kimmel’s remarks continues to evolve, it's clear that the fate of his talk show has transcended mere television ratings, resulting in a larger commentary about the intersection of politics and entertainment, while challenging the boundaries of acceptable discourse in a media-saturated landscape. The actions taken by ABC, influenced by grasps from the Federal Communications Commission, illustrate how media organizations are navigating the ever-complex digital expressions and responsibilities, revealing an urgent discussion on who gets to speak and what is deemed acceptable within public discourse, raising concerns over the health and future of free speech in the modern era.