Jimmy Kimmel criticized the political reactions surrounding the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, especially taking aim at President Donald Trump's response. On his September 11, 2025, show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!," Kimmel condemned the "extremely vile reactions from both ends of the political spectrum" and expressed disappointment that the president did not try to unite the country after the tragedy. Instead, Kimmel said Trump blamed Democrats for the shooting through their rhetoric, which Kimmel found divisive. Kimmel contrasted Trump's response with those of previous presidents, who tried to unite Americans after tragic events. He also called for less angry finger- pointing and more recognition of the horror of the shooting itself.
Kimmel's remarks sparked controversy, leading to the suspension of his show by ABC after his comments about the shooting and political fallout.
