Reactions Following Assassination of Charlie Kirk
After the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, on September 10, 2025, a section of the left celebrated the event online and in public spaces.
However, some individuals who openly expressed their approval of Kirk’s murder faced substantial backlash, resulting in shaming, disciplinary actions, or even losing their jobs.
“I’m very satisfied,” one individual reportedly stated.
Among those involved was Tamar Shirinian, an assistant professor of anthropology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He made an inflammatory post on Facebook shortly after the news broke, declaring, “The world is better off without him.” Reports indicated that he went further, suggesting that not only the grieving widow but also Kirk’s children would benefit from his absence and dubbed the widow as “a terrible asshole” for marrying him.
The virality of these comments triggered a response from the university, leading President Donde Plowman to inform Shirinian on September 15 that he was being placed on administrative leave pending termination procedures. Plowman highlighted that such pro-violence sentiments undermined the university’s academic mission, labeling them as unacceptable.
“By glorifying violence and murder in social media posts, you violate the university’s expectations for those who teach students,” Plowman emphasized in his letter. He also pointed out that Shirinian’s inflammatory remarks during a tense time demonstrated a lack of capacity for effective teaching.
In response to the university’s actions, Shirinian appeared to shift blame in a six-page document, explaining that he made his comments out of emotional turmoil. Nonetheless, he went on to criticize Kirk in detail, portraying himself as the real victim of the ensuing hate mail and backlash.
University officials were unconvinced by his defense. On February 11, after Shirinian made further comments questioning the university leadership, the termination process moved forward, with Plowman citing the demeaning nature of Shirinian’s remarks toward Kirk’s family as a clear violation of university conduct.
Despite seeking legal recourse, claiming that the university retaliated against him for exercising his free speech rights, Shirinian found himself in a protracted legal battle. The case was on track for trial in January 2027, but before proceeding, the university opted to settle.
Ultimately, a $1.9 million settlement was reached, as announced by WBIR-TV. Board Chair John Compton remarked that continuing the litigation would consume time and resources better invested in the university’s mission.
Shirinian’s attorney characterized the settlement as a practical resolution that recognized the seriousness of the dispute while avoiding long, stressful litigation. Following the settlement, Shirinian expressed satisfaction with the outcome.
The final approval of the settlement now rests with the entire Board of Regents and the state, including Governor Bill Lee.
