Former tennis player Martina Navratilova expressed strong views on social media Wednesday after news broke about Disney’s decision to pull Jimmy Kimmel’s show off the air. This action came in response to Kimmel’s controversial remarks regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
Navratilova, known for her outspoken liberal stance, criticized Disney’s move via a series of posts on X. She also shared several related posts discussing the situation involving Kimmel.
On Monday, Kimmel claimed that the situation represented a “new low,” accusing critics of trying to associate 22-year-old suspect Tyler Robinson’s left-wing beliefs with the assassination. He suggested that some are trying to score political points from the tragedy.
Kimmel’s comments came shortly after both the FBI and the governor of Utah indicated that Robinson has a history of leftist ideologies and has radicalized over time. It’s worth noting that Robinson, who is biologically male, is in a relationship with a transgender partner undergoing a female transition.
Brendan Kerr, the Chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), issued a warning to Disney to address the ongoing controversy. On “The Benny Show,” Kerr described Kimmel’s remarks as “some of the most ill acts” and hinted at possible actions the FCC could take against Disney.
Kerr also stated that there seems to be a coordinated effort in some circles to mislead the public about essential truths. He referred to Kimmel’s comments as significant newsworthy acts related to public interest.
Nexstar Media Group, which operates numerous television stations, has decided to preempt Kimmel’s show on ABC affiliates starting Wednesday and will replace it due to his comments regarding the allegations related to Charlie Kirk’s assassin, Tyler Robinson.
Later Wednesday, Disney confirmed Kimmel’s removal from the air, stating, “Jimmy Kimmel Live will be off the air indefinitely,” according to a spokesperson.
