Was the entire Jimmy Kimmel fiasco about Disney's CEO?

Was the entire Jimmy Kimmel fiasco about Disney's CEO?

Jimmy Kimmel's recent one-week suspension from his late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, was more about protecting the legacy of Disney CEO Bob Iger than political reasons, multiple ABC insiders have revealed.

The decision came after Kimmel faced backlash for his comments on the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

This criticism led Nexstar Media Group, which owns nearly 200 stations, to threaten pulling his show from ABC affiliates.

Iger's business interests and personal connections influenced the decision

Insiders told Page Six that Iger's decision to suspend Kimmel was driven by both business interests and personal relationships.

One insider said, "[Iger] may come across as this slick Hollywood Mr Nice Guy, but he's no bulls**t. He's all about business."

Another added that Iger's personal friendship with Kimmel complicated the issue of his suspension.

Protecting legacy and financial considerations were also factors

The decision to suspend Kimmel was also influenced by Iger's desire to protect his legacy.

Insiders said, "[Iger] is in no danger of not being rich, but if he loses the FCC and ABC suffers financially, then he suffers."

"He wants to be a visionary like Walt Disney."

Another insider added, "His decision was guided by principle and the desire to do the right thing for the company."

Public and industry reaction to Kimmel's suspension

The suspension of Kimmel also drew mixed reactions from the public and Hollywood.

Some consumers canceled their subscriptions to Disney's streaming platforms in protest, while US President Donald Trump praised the move.

Following "thoughtful conversations" with Kimmel, ABC recently announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would be returning.

However, Nexstar and Sinclair Broadcast Group said they would continue to keep the program off their affiliates despite his reinstatement.