Late-night hosts unite against Trump's pressure, rally for suspended Jimmy Kimmel

Late-Night Hosts Rally Around Suspended Jimmy Kimmel In a show of solidarity, late-night hosts across major networks took to their respective stages on Thursday to express outrage over the sudden suspension of ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" following pressure from the Trump administration. The move has sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about the limits of free speech in the entertainment industry. According to sources, ABC executives caved under pressure from the White House, leading to the temporary halt of Kimmel's show. In response, Comedy Central's Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert sounded off on their respective programs, with Colbert remarking, "If ABC thinks that this is going to satisfy the regime, they are woefully naive." He added, "Clearly, they've never read the children's book 'If You Give a Mouse a Kimmel'." Stewart, meanwhile, took a more satirical approach, projecting images of the White House's opulent interiors onto his set while sarcastically shivering in fear. "We have another fun, hilarious, administration-compliant show," he quipped before showering President Trump with mock flattery. NBC's Seth Meyers and Jimmy Fallon also nodded to the controversy, with Meyers stating, "I just want to say, before we get started here, that I've always admired and respected Mr. Trump." He added, "And if you've ever seen me say anything negative about him, that's just a coincidence." Background context reveals that Kimmel has been a vocal critic of the Trump administration, frequently targeting the President on his show. The suspension has sparked debate among industry professionals and free speech advocates, with many questioning the implications for artistic expression. Industry insiders point out that this move sets a concerning precedent, as it suggests that networks may be willing to compromise their editorial independence in response to external pressure. "This is a slippery slope," said one media expert, who wished to remain anonymous. "If ABC can silence Kimmel, what's next? Will they start censoring other shows?" The controversy has also sparked a wider conversation about the role of late-night television in holding those in power accountable. As Stewart noted, "With an autocrat, you cannot give an inch." The suspension of Kimmel's show serves as a stark reminder of the importance of free speech and artistic expression. As for next developments, ABC has yet to comment on the status of Kimmel's show or provide a timeline for its return. Meanwhile, industry professionals continue to weigh in on the controversy, with many calling for greater protections for artists and journalists facing pressure from external forces. Latest Developments: ABC executives have refused to comment on the suspension of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Industry insiders speculate that the move may be a test case for future censorship Late-night hosts continue to speak out against the suspension, with many calling for greater protections for artistic expression Sources: Interviews with industry experts and media professionals Official statements from ABC and late-night networks Observations of live broadcasts on Thursday night *Reporting by Motherjones.*