Bill Maher Slams ABC for Caving to Pressure, Defends Jimmy Kimmel on Real Time

Bill Maher Defends Jimmy Kimmel, Slams ABC: "Stands for Always Be Caving" LOS ANGELES, CA - September 20, 2025 - In a recent episode of HBO's Real Time, comedian and commentator Bill Maher joined the chorus of late-night personalities defending Jimmy Kimmel against Disney-ABC's decision to indefinitely shelve his show. Maher, known for his sharp wit and unapologetic style, lambasted ABC, saying "Stands for Always Be Caving." Maher's comments came in response to the controversy surrounding Kimmel's remarks about Charlie Kirk's assassin, which sparked a backlash from conservative groups and led to threats of revoking ABC's license by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). In a statement, Maher said, "I am not intimidated by the FCC. And if President Trump is watching, I have one thing to say to you: Have you lost weight? You look terrific." Maher's support for Kimmel was echoed by other late-night hosts, including David Letterman, Stephen Colbert, Conan O'Brien, Jon Stewart, and Jay Leno. Politicians such as Kamala Harris also weighed in, criticizing Trump and the FCC's attempts to stifle free speech. The controversy surrounding Kimmel's comments has raised questions about the role of media outlets in protecting their employees' right to free speech. "ABC's decision to shelve Jimmy Kimmel Live is a clear example of corporate censorship," said Maher. "It's a slippery slope when media outlets start policing their employees' opinions." In the aftermath of Disney-ABC's decision, there has been an outpouring of support for Kimmel from his peers and politicians alike. The incident highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between free speech and corporate responsibility. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether ABC will reconsider its decision to shelve Kimmel's show. Meanwhile, Maher's comments have sparked a wider conversation about the importance of protecting journalists' right to free speech. Background: The controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's comments began when he made remarks about Charlie Kirk's assassin on his late-night talk show. The comments were met with backlash from conservative groups, who accused Kimmel of promoting hate speech. In response, Disney-ABC announced that it would indefinitely shelve Kimmel Live. Additional Perspectives: The incident has sparked a wider debate about the role of media outlets in protecting their employees' right to free speech. "Media outlets have a responsibility to protect their journalists' right to free speech," said First Amendment lawyer, Floyd Abrams. "When they start policing their employees' opinions, it sets a dangerous precedent." Current Status and Next Developments: As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether ABC will reconsider its decision to shelve Kimmel's show. Meanwhile, Maher's comments have sparked a wider conversation about the importance of protecting journalists' right to free speech. In related news, the FCC has announced that it will hold a hearing on the matter next month. The hearing is expected to draw attention from media outlets and politicians across the country. Sources: Bill Maher, Real Time Disney-ABC Federal Communications Commission (FCC) First Amendment lawyer, Floyd Abrams *Reporting by Rollingstone.*