Former ESPN host Keith Olbermann faced backlash on social media after his remarks regarding the Jimmy Kimmel show being taken off the air and the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
Olbermann reacted to a statement from Sinclair, which claimed that Kimmel’s suspension from his ABC late-night show “isn’t enough.” The network suggested that ABC should honor Kirk’s memory instead of airing Kimmel’s show following the conservative influencer’s shooting last week.
“Hell burns, Sinclair,” Olbermann posted on X, addressing the situation with Charlie Kirk.
Users online criticized his comments. He also mentioned Kimmel’s predicament, reflecting on earlier statements that led to his suspension, and quoted Kimmel who said, “it wasn’t true.”
Kimmel responded on Monday, accusing Olbermann of hitting a “new low” by trying to connect a leftist ideology to 22-year-old suspect Tyler Robinson, despite affirmations given in Tuesday’s indictment.
“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang who desperately tried to characterize the child who murdered Charlie Kirk as something other than them,” Kimmel expressed. He pointed out that both FBI officials and the Utah governor claimed Robinson had embraced a “left ideology” and had become more radical over recent years. It’s also come to light that he is biologically male and has a romantic relationship with a transgender partner who is transitioning.
Nexstar Media Group stated it would pre-empt Kimmel’s show with ABC affiliates starting Wednesday evening, substituting it with other programming addressing Robinson’s comments. Sinclair, however, demanded stronger measures.
“Kimmel’s comments were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a moment of crucial importance for our country,” said Sinclair Vice-President Jason Smith. He expressed that the broadcaster has a responsibility to promote respectful and constructive dialogue within the community. Smith noted, “This incident underscores the need for the FCC to take immediate regulatory measures to address control held by large networks.”
Democratic lawmakers and actor Ben Stiller also expressed frustration with ABC’s decision.
Kirk, 31, was fatally shot last week while addressing an event at Utah Valley University, prompting widespread mourning across the nation.
Kirk’s funeral is scheduled for Sunday in Glendale, Arizona.
