Comedian Bill Maher has expressed that he feels “not threatened” in light of the “hypocritical” criticism directed at President Trump and Jimmy Kimmel during a recent broadcast on ABC.
In a monologue on his show “Real Time” this past Friday, he said, “I know why you’re happy tonight. I’m still on.” He went on to comment on the state of talk shows, mentioning, “Talk show hosts are down like a blockbuster in the 90s.”
Maher added, “I’m not threatened by the Federal Communications Commission,” and then addressed Trump directly, saying, “Have you lost weight? You look great.”
Kimmel’s indefinite suspension by ABC occurred on Wednesday following his remarks about Charlie Kirk, the conservative activist who was tragically shot in Utah last week. Kimmel faced backlash for suggesting that the “Maga gang” was misrepresenting the identity of the gunman.
This decision came shortly after Nexstar Media Group, which owns Hill, announced that the station would preempt “Jimmy Kimmel Live” due to the controversial rhetoric. FCC Chair Brendan Kerr criticized Kimmel’s comments, defending ABC’s actions.
Maher recalled ABC’s cancellation of his previous show, “Politically Incorrect,” back in 2002, mentioning that it happened before cancel culture was a thing. He remarked, “It’s even worse now, but ABC is stable. They will always be a cave.”
Showing his support for Kimmel, Maher said, “Jimmy, I’m with you, and on the bright side, you don’t have to pretend to like Disneyland anymore,” referencing Disney, ABC’s parent company.
He added, “This right-wing threat is very hypocritical. Everyone is scared right now, and they’re all trying to grab attention.” Maher went on to say, “Good Morning America is now changing its name to ‘Even Scum, who didn’t vote for Good Morning America, Trump.'”
Many Democrats have condemned ABC’s decision, labeling it censorship, and some lawmakers are calling for Kerr’s resignation. Other late-night hosts, including John Stewart and Stephen Colbert, have rallied in defense of Kimmel, raising concerns over free speech following Kirk’s passing.
Trump endorsed the network’s actions, suggesting that both ABC and late-night shows should temper their criticism of him.
