Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner made headlines on Friday with a strong statement backing Jimmy Kimmel, whose late-night show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, has been suspended indefinitely by Disney's subsidiary, ABC. This suspension comes in the wake of controversial comments made by Kimmel regarding the tragic killing of Charlie Kirk.
In a tweet, Eisner expressed his disapproval of the actions taken by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, accusing him of engaging in what he termed "out-of-control intimidation" towards both ABC and Disney. This intimidation reportedly played a significant role in ABC's decision to pull Kimmel's show off the air on Wednesday night.
Eisner's statement raised critical questions about leadership accountability in the entertainment industry. He rhetorically asked, "Where has all the leadership gone?" highlighting a perceived lack of support for creative expression within major media organizations. His comments underscore the ongoing debate around freedom of speech, particularly in the context of political and financial pressures faced by networks.
In a tongue-in-cheek remark, Eisner suggested that perhaps the Constitution should include a caveat stating, "Congress shall make no law abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, except in one's political or financial self-interest." This quip reflects the tension between artistic expression and regulatory oversight that many in the industry are currently grappling with.
For the record, Eisner also took a moment to praise Jimmy Kimmel, stating that he finds the late-night host to be "very talented and funny." This endorsement from a former Disney executive adds weight to Kimmel's reputation in the entertainment world, especially during a time of controversy.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are watching closely to see how this dispute over creative freedom and regulatory pressure will impact the future of late-night television and the broader media landscape.
