Hollywood Teamsters React to Jimmy Kimmel Suspension, Rail Against Corporate Consolidation
LOS ANGELES - In a move that has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! has drawn fierce criticism from the Hollywood Teamsters. The union, which represents over 6,000 drivers, locations and casting professionals, animal trainers and wranglers in the L.A. area, condemned the decision as a result of corporate consolidation.
On Wednesday, ABC indefinitely suspended Kimmel's late-night show after he made comments that were interpreted by some as suggesting the shooter of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk was a Make America Great Again supporter. The suspension has left many union and guild members without jobs, sparking outrage among Teamsters Local 399 officials.
"This is not just about Jimmy Kimmel or his show," said Teamsters Local 399 President, Paul Zolfo. "This is about the erosion of free speech and the consequences of corporate consolidation in our industry."
The suspension comes as Nexstar and Sinclair, two of the largest station groups in the country, continue to expand their reach through mergers and acquisitions. ABC, owned by Disney, has faced criticism for its handling of Kimmel's comments.
"We're not just talking about jobs here," said Zolfo. "We're talking about the very fabric of our industry. When you have corporate giants like Nexstar and Sinclair buying up stations left and right, it's a threat to everything we stand for."
The suspension has also sparked debate among industry insiders, with some arguing that Kimmel's comments were in poor taste.
"Jimmy Kimmel made a mistake," said one entertainment executive, who wished to remain anonymous. "But this is not just about him. It's about the culture of fear and intimidation that exists in our industry."
As the situation continues to unfold, Teamsters Local 399 officials are calling for greater transparency and accountability from ABC and its corporate partners.
"We demand answers," said Zolfo. "We want to know what happened here and why. We will not stand idly by while our members' livelihoods are threatened by corporate greed."
The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! has left many in the entertainment industry wondering what's next for late-night television. As the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the Hollywood Teamsters will be watching closely.
In related news, a rally is planned outside the ABC studios in Los Angeles on Friday to show support for Kimmel and the union members affected by the suspension.
*Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*
