Disney’s decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel’s show following his controversial remarks has ignited a full-scale celebrity backlash, fueling a boycott against the entertainment giant.

Celebrity Backlash and Boycott Call

On September 17, 2025, Jimmy Kimmel made remarks regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk that were deemed controversial. In response, Disney, which owns ABC, suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” This action triggered a wave of criticism and calls for a boycott from several high-profile Marvel actors and other Hollywood celebrities. They argued that Disney’s decision represented an attack on free speech and expressed solidarity with Kimmel.

Among those leading the charge were Tatiana Maslany, Pedro Pascal, and Marisa Tomei. They urged their followers to cancel subscriptions to Disney’s streaming services like Disney+ and Hulu. The celebrities were joined by others like Damon Lindelof and Olivia Rodrigo, who publicly criticized Disney’s actions as censorship and an abuse of power.

Disney’s Response and Reinstatement of Kimmel

After five days of suspension, Disney announced the return of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on September 22, 2025. The company justified their initial decision by stating it was meant to prevent further inflaming an already tense national situation. However, Disney’s handling of the situation has sparked a broader debate about media corporations’ roles in regulating speech, especially in politically sensitive contexts. The reinstatement came after what Disney described as “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel.

The swift reinstatement highlighted the influence celebrities wield in shaping public discourse and potentially subscriber behavior. Disney’s actions indicate a balancing act between managing public relations and maintaining control over programming and talent decisions.

Implications and Industry Impact

The incident has significant implications, both in the short and long term. In the short term, there is increased scrutiny on Disney’s crisis management practices and content moderation policies. The boycott calls could lead to potential subscriber losses, impacting Disney’s economic standing. In the long term, this event sets a precedent for how media companies may respond to politically sensitive incidents, influencing how they manage talent and public relations.

The broader debate about free speech and censorship in the entertainment industry continues to intensify. As corporations navigate these complex issues, the line between creative freedom and corporate interests becomes increasingly blurred, prompting ongoing discussions about the boundaries of free speech in entertainment.

Sources:

Hollywood Reporter: Celebrity Reactions and Industry Insider Perspectives

USA Today: Support for Kimmel from Disney Stars

Yahoo Entertainment: Call for Boycott by Disney Stars