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More than a hundred former journalists from ABC News have urged Disney’s CEO Bob Iger to prioritize free speech in light of increasing political pressures. This appeal follows the indefinite suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, which many perceive as a troubling response to political criticism.
The letter, initiated last week, addressed ABC’s decision to suspend Kimmel after he suggested that a shooter connected to Charlie Kirk might have affiliations with the MAGA movement. Signatories included prominent figures such as Sam Donaldson and Judy Muller, alongside Kaycee Freed Jennings, the widow of esteemed anchor Peter Jennings.
They underscored the necessity for a unified front against political intimidation that threatens journalistic integrity.
The context of Kimmel’s suspension
Kimmel’s suspension occurred shortly after Brendan Carr, chair of the FCC, issued a warning to both ABC and Disney.
Carr indicated that they could either voluntarily comply with regulatory expectations or face harsher consequences. This climate of fear intensified when Nexstar and Sinclair, which operate over sixty ABC affiliates, removed Kimmel’s show from their lineups.
The controversy is further complicated by ABC’s prior settlement of a defamation lawsuit involving former President Trump, which resulted in a $15 million payout.
This settlement arose from a false statement made by anchor George Stephanopoulos regarding Trump’s alleged civil liability in a sexual assault case. Critics argue that such financial settlements only fortify Trump’s ongoing media attacks.
Response from former ABC journalists
The coalition of former ABC journalists expressed gratitude for Iger’s decision to reinstate Kimmel, viewing it as a significant message that political pressures should not dictate media programming. However, they emphasized that this reinstatement marks only the beginning of a broader struggle for press freedom.
The letter stressed the importance of Disney taking a strong stance against such intimidation, stating, “Disney has both the responsibility and the opportunity to lead by standing firmly against capitulation and in defense of democratic values.” Led by former correspondent Lisa Stark and experienced executive producer Ian Cameron, the signatories reaffirmed the non-negotiable nature of the First Amendment.
Political climate and its implications for media
As Kimmel returned to the airwaves, he urged viewers to voice their concerns about Trump, labeling him a “bully.” He warned of ongoing threats to journalists, stating, “He’s not stopping. And it’s not just comedy; he’s gunning for our journalists, too.” This sentiment resonated with many in the media, who remain increasingly apprehensive about the ramifications of such political hostility.
On the same day, Trump, who had previously celebrated Kimmel’s suspension, took to his Truth Social platform to express disbelief over Kimmel’s reinstatement. He accused ABC of making an illegal campaign contribution, branding Kimmel as an “arm of the DNC,” further exacerbating tensions between the network and the former president.
New media restrictions and their impact
Apart from the Kimmel controversy, ABC News has highlighted new restrictions imposed on journalists covering the Department of Defense. Under these regulations, reporters must sign a pledge prohibiting the disclosure of unapproved information. The Pentagon has threatened to revoke press credentials for those who fail to comply.
Jon Karl, ABC News’ chief Washington correspondent, criticized these restrictions, comparing them to policies associated with authoritarian regimes. He remarked, “That’s a policy you might expect to see in China, Russia, or North Korea, but not in the United States.” He identified these developments as part of a broader trend aimed at silencing dissenting voices critical of the Trump administration.
The letter, initiated last week, addressed ABC’s decision to suspend Kimmel after he suggested that a shooter connected to Charlie Kirk might have affiliations with the MAGA movement. Signatories included prominent figures such as Sam Donaldson and Judy Muller, alongside Kaycee Freed Jennings, the widow of esteemed anchor Peter Jennings. They underscored the necessity for a unified front against political intimidation that threatens journalistic integrity.0
