Creatives and Disney+ Subscribers Call for Boycotts Over Jimmy Kimmel Suspension
In the wake of ABC's decision to suspend late-night host Jimmy Kimmel over comments about Charlie Kirk's death, a growing chorus of creatives, politicians, and trade unions is urging a boycott of parent company Disney. The backlash has sparked concerns about the economic impact on Disney's streaming services, including Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
According to industry analysts, the suspension of Kimmel's show could lead to a significant loss in ad revenue for ABC, potentially affecting Disney's bottom line. "The timing couldn't be worse for Disney," said media analyst Michael Nathanson. "With the holiday season approaching, a boycott of their streaming services could translate into millions of dollars in lost revenue."
Damon Lindelof, creator of several high-profile TV series, including Lost and Watchmen, took to Instagram to express his support for Kimmel. "If Jimmy's suspension isn't lifted soon, I won't be able to work with the company that imposed it," he wrote.
Tatiana Maslany, star of Marvel's She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, also used her social media platform to encourage fans to cancel their Disney+ subscriptions. "Let's make our voices heard and stand up for free speech," she posted.
The controversy surrounding Kimmel's comments has sparked a broader debate about censorship and the limits of free expression in the entertainment industry. "This is not just about Jimmy Kimmel; it's about the values that underpin our society," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). "We must defend the right to speak freely, even when we disagree with what's being said."
The suspension of Kimmel's show has also raised questions about the impact on ABC's ratings and advertising revenue. According to Nielsen Media Research, Jimmy Kimmel Live averaged around 2.5 million viewers per episode in August.
As the situation continues to unfold, Disney officials have remained tight-lipped about the company's plans for Kimmel's future with the network. "We're monitoring the situation closely and will take necessary steps to address any concerns," a spokesperson said.
The boycott calls are expected to continue, with some industry insiders predicting a significant impact on Disney's streaming services. "If this boycott gains momentum, it could have far-reaching consequences for Disney's bottom line," said Nathanson.
Background:
ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live over comments made about Charlie Kirk's death, sparking outrage among conservatives and libertarians. The controversy has reignited debates about free speech and censorship in the entertainment industry.
Additional Perspectives:
Industry experts point out that a boycott of Disney's streaming services could have significant economic implications for the company. "A loss of subscribers would not only impact revenue but also affect the value of Disney's stock," said Nathanson.
Some creatives are calling for a more nuanced approach to addressing free speech concerns, rather than resorting to boycotts. "We need to find ways to engage in constructive dialogue and address these issues without stifling creativity or limiting free expression," said Lindelof.
Current Status:
The situation remains fluid, with Disney officials continuing to monitor the situation closely. The company has not announced any plans to lift Kimmel's suspension or take disciplinary action against him.
As the controversy continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the impact on Disney's bottom line and its streaming services will be significant if the boycott calls gain momentum.
*Reporting by Gizmodo.*
