UPDATE: The crew of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will receive their pay next week as urgent discussions between host Jimmy Kimmel and Disney executives unfold regarding the future of the show. This comes after the program was abruptly pre-empted indefinitely on October 25, 2023, due to backlash over Kimmel’s comments in a monologue about the suspected killer of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
The fallout from Kimmel’s remarks intensified after Brendan Carr, a member of the Trump administration, publicly pressured Disney to take action against the late-night host. Kimmel’s show, which employs approximately 200 to 250 staff members, has been under scrutiny as local affiliates owned by Nexstar and Sinclair announced they would not air the program.
As the situation develops, sources indicate that Kimmel is deeply concerned for his crew. Earlier today, he met with top ABC executives and his attorney to discuss potential paths forward. Although no resolution has been reached, Disney remains hopeful to bring Kimmel’s show back on air.
The decision to pre-empt the show followed Kimmel’s refusal to alter his prepared monologue, which aimed at critiquing Fox News and the MAGA movement. Disney CEO Bob Iger and Disney Entertainment co-chair Dana Walden intervened after Carr’s comments led to a serious threat of ABC losing its local broadcast licenses.
A source close to the negotiations remarked, “Everyone deeply values him and wants him to come back. But he has to take down the temperature.” This statement highlights the tension surrounding the show as both parties navigate a path through political controversy and public backlash.
Kimmel’s commitment to his crew has been evident in the past. During the 2023 WGA strike, he provided financial assistance when production halted. Additionally, his backlot served as a donation center for victims of wildfires in Los Angeles earlier this year.
As of now, the urgency of the situation remains high. Fans and staff alike await clarity on whether “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will return to screens. The next steps in negotiations will be crucial as Disney and Kimmel work to find a resolution while navigating the political landscape that has intensified over the past few days.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
