TODAY’S PAPER | September 19, 2025 | EPAPER

‘How to Boycott ABC’ becomes trending topic after Jimmy Kimmel show cancellation

Critics argue the move was politically motivated and inconsistent


Pop Culture & Art September 19, 2025 1 min read
Photo: Reuters

Following the sudden cancelation of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, outrage is building online as thousands of viewers call for a boycott of ABC and its parent company, Disney. The backlash stems from Kimmel’s comments during his September 15 monologue, in which he discussed the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. While Kimmel did not celebrate the death, he criticized Donald Trump’s reaction and accused the “MAGA gang” of using the tragedy for political gain.

On September 17, Nexstar Media Group announced that its ABC affiliates would remove Jimmy Kimmel Live! “for the foreseeable future,” citing Kimmel’s comments. ABC followed suit, sparking a widespread outcry over what many view as an attack on free speech. Critics argue the move was politically motivated and inconsistent, especially given Trump’s own public opposition to cancel culture.

In response, users across Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and other platforms have begun organizing a coordinated boycott. Recommended actions include canceling subscriptions to Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, and other Disney-owned services, as well as avoiding Disney parks and merchandise. Some are also urging people to picket Disney properties and contact customer service directly to explain their reasons.

Hashtags like #CancelDisneyPlus, #BoycottABC, and #CancelHulu are trending, as public frustration grows. “Never forgive ABC for what they did,” one user wrote. “This is a dark moment for free speech.”

While some are warning about the legal risks of protests, others argue that civil disobedience is necessary. “They can’t arrest everyone,” one Redditor posted. “It’s a calculated risk.”

As tensions rise, many see the boycott as a pivotal moment in the broader debate over corporate influence, political expression, and media censorship.

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