Jimmy Kimmel's axe shows 'fragile' US as celeb PR urges star's next move

The decision to axe Jimmy Kimmel'spopular TV show appears to have had a huge ripple effect within the industry, as it highlights the "fragile" state of the late night format of TV and is also reflective of America's political sensitivities, according to a celebrity PR. Jimmy Kimmel, who was the host and executive producer of Jimmy Kimmel Live! was sensationally dropped by his network ABC after making a few comments over the fatal shooting of Charlie Kirk.

During his show, the TV host told his audience that "many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalise on the murder of Charlie Kirk."

Jimmy, 57, expressed his viewpoint after the American right-wing activist was shot and killed during an event at a Utah University campus, earlier this month.

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And the shooter, Tyler Robinson, 22, now faces charges of aggravated murder for the assassination of the conservative activist.

But now, in the wake of Jimmy Kimmel's demise, Jane Owen has spoken out in an exclusive chat with the Mirror.

The owner of Jane Owen PR told us: "Kimmel’s commentary may have crossed a line for ABC’s corporate comfort level, but staying silent would have risked eroding the very voice that made him resonate with his audience. As a publicist it scares me because it indicates that we are now living in a world where anyone in the public sphere can be punished for having an opinion that doesn’t align with the government.

She continued: "As a human being I’m terrified that this is a clear indication of lack of freedom and democracy."

Speaking about Jimmy's next move in light of his shock exit from his highly regarded TV show, she added: "For his next moves, the smartest PR play would be to frame this not as a personal scandal, but as part of a bigger conversation about free expression and the state of political satire in America.

She then went on to say: "He should clarify his intent, stand by the principle of speaking truth to power, but also acknowledge the sensitivities of a national broadcast platform. Strategically, he could leverage digital platforms, podcasts, or streaming — spaces with more freedom and less regulatory risk — while keeping the door open to a negotiated return to network TV.

She concluded her chat saying: "The key is to shift the narrative from 'Kimmel in trouble' to 'Kimmel standing for something bigger', which will protect his reputation and keep his audience engaged while he considers his next chapter."

Jimmy Kimmel has received an unrecognisable level of support from many, including those in the TV industry, who have not been afraid to voice their opinion.

One person in particular is fellow TV host Stephen Colbert. Speaking about ABC's decision to axe the star, he publicly said: "I’m your host, Steven Colbert, but tonight, we are all Jimmy Kimmel."

He added: "With an autocrat, you cannot give an inch. Jimmy, I stand with you and your staff 100%."

But he is nt the only one to stand up for Jimmy. So too has Hollywood legend Ben Stiller and comedian John Bishop.

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