The internet is buzzing with outrage as users share screenshots of canceled subscriptions to Disney+ and Hulu, alongside reports of canceled vacations at various Disney properties. The reaction has been swift, with protestors gathering outside the corporate headquarters in Burbank, California. Angry subscribers have taken to social media, flooding accounts and customer service pages with their grievances. The controversy stems from the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's show, which has sparked significant backlash from Hollywood celebrities.
In a show of solidarity with Kimmel, numerous celebrities have expressed their disappointment with Disney for suspending his show under pressure from the FCC. Some stars have gone beyond mere support, endorsing calls to boycott Disney's streaming services. Notable figures include Tatiana Maslany, known for her role in the Disney+ series She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, who shared a behind-the-scenes image on Instagram urging followers to “cancel your @disneyplus @hulu @espn subscriptions!” Additionally, Marisa Tomei, who portrayed Aunt May in the Spider-Man movies, reposted an appeal to “unsubscribe and boycott” Disney platforms. These actions reflect a growing sentiment among talent to step away from the company amid its controversial decisions.
The potential for widespread boycotts against Disney's streaming platforms and theme parks could have significant financial implications for the company. Recent quarterly reports indicate that Disney+ has reached 128 million subscribers, gaining 1.8 million from the previous quarter, while combined subscriptions for Disney+ and Hulu total 183 million. This growth has positively impacted the streaming division's profits, helping to offset weaker results in film and television. Furthermore, the parks and experiences division, which encompasses the cruise line, has seen increased revenue thanks to higher customer spending and more hotel occupancy.
During a recent episode of his show, Kimmel criticized what he referred to as the “MAGA gang” for attempting to mischaracterize a suspect involved in a tragic incident. His comments prompted backlash, particularly from FCC Chair Brendan Carr, who labeled Kimmel’s remarks as “truly sick” and hinted at potential regulatory actions against both the network and Disney. Following the controversy, Nexstar Media Group, which owns numerous ABC affiliate stations, announced it would preempt Kimmel's show indefinitely, further escalating the situation.
As the controversy unfolds, tensions are rising regarding the implications of government involvement in media content. Some conservatives, including Senator Ted Cruz, have voiced alarm over Carr's comments, warning that threats to silence Kimmel could set a dangerous precedent for free speech. Cruz stated, “I think it is unbelievably dangerous for government to put itself in the position of saying, ‘We’re going to decide what speech we like and what we don’t.’” His remarks underscore concerns about the potential ramifications of regulatory actions on media freedom.
The unfolding drama surrounding Disney, Kimmel, and the FCC has ignited widespread discussion about media freedom, corporate responsibility, and the potential impact of boycotts on a major entertainment conglomerate. As the situation continues to develop, both fans and celebrities are watching closely to see how Disney navigates this turbulent landscape.
