Pedro Pascal, known for his roles in The Mandalorian and upcoming Marvel productions, openly expressed his backing for Jimmy Kimmel amid the late-night host’s indefinite suspension by ABC. The actor shared his stance on social media on September 18, 2025, underlining his commitment to defending free speech despite his close ties to Disney.
The suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! by ABC followed controversial comments made by Kimmel regarding Charlie Kirk’s passing, which sparked significant backlash. In the wake of this decision, Pascal’s public defense of Kimmel has resonated widely within the entertainment community, marking a significant moment given his status as a prominent Disney-affiliated star.
Pascal’s Social Media Post Sends a Clear Message
On Instagram, Pedro Pascal posted a throwback photograph from his March 24 appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, wearing a distinctive Adult Content t-shirt. His caption was explicit and unwavering:
“Standing with you @jimmykimmellive Defend #FreeSpeech Defend #DEMOCRACY,”
Pascal wrote, making his position clear. This action quickly gained strong reactions on social media, with many fans and colleagues applauding him for stepping forward amid the controversy.
Pascal’s message highlights his willingness to prioritize principles over potential corporate pressures, balancing his prolific roles within Disney’s ecosystem, including starring in The Fantastic Four: First Steps and the forthcoming Avengers: Doomsday, as well as being the recognizable lead of the Mandalorian series alongside Grogu.
Context Behind ABC’s Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel
ABC’s decision to halt Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely came after an intense situation involving critical remarks Kimmel made about commentator Charlie Kirk’s death. FCC Chair Brendan Carr publicly pressured Disney, warning that failure to act could result in regulatory consequences, thereby prompting the network’s unprecedented move.
This suspension created a ripple effect across Hollywood, stirring debate over issues of censorship, corporate influence, and free speech. Industry insiders and audiences alike were surprised, as production for upcoming episodes was reportedly ongoing just before the announcement.
Industry Voices Rally Behind Freedom of Expression
Pedro Pascal is among several notable actors who have taken a public stand supporting Jimmy Kimmel. Tatiana Maslany, also affiliated with Marvel through her role in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, urged her followers to reconsider their subscriptions, writing:
“cancel your Disney+, Hulu, ESPN subscriptions!”
Mark Ruffalo joined the discourse during virtual events, emphasizing his concern:
“My industry doesn’t really understand what’s happening right now, but what they do understand is our freedom of speech is being attacked.”
Unlike some colleagues who advocate for direct boycotts, Pascal’s approach has been more measured, focusing on supporting Kimmel without openly calling for a Disney boycott. This reflects the complex nature of navigating professional commitments to Disney while addressing contentious corporate decisions publicly.
Surprise and Shock Within Hollywood Circles
The abrupt suspension caught many in the industry off guard, including producers and publicists who were actively preparing new show segments. Damon Lindelof, formerly attached to a Disney and Lucasfilm Star Wars project, conveyed deep frustration about the move, stating he was “shocked, saddened and infuriated” and declared:
“can’t in good conscience work for the company”
unless the suspension is reversed.
This level of outspoken resistance to a decision by Disney is unusual, particularly given the actors’ ongoing contracts and forthcoming projects. Writers and performers have organized protests at Disney’s Burbank lot, highlighting internal dissent rarely seen at this scale in the entertainment industry.
Pascal’s Stand Reflects Growing Tensions Within Disney’s Talent
Pedro Pascal’s public defense of Kimmel underscores a broader tension facing prominent stars under the Disney umbrella, where contractual and corporate loyalties intersect with issues of personal and professional principle. Pascal’s roles across major franchises like Marvel and Mandalorian make his stance all the more significant, as it challenges an employer with whom he has close professional ties.
The controversy around Kimmel’s suspension is thus not only a matter of editorial content but a reflection of shifting dynamics in Hollywood regarding creative freedom and corporate governance. Pascal and his fellow stars’ actions may influence how Disney manages similar conflicts in the future.
Industry and Public Await Disney’s Next Move
As the debate continues, the entertainment sector watches closely how Disney will respond to the internal criticism and public scrutiny. With key talent like Pedro Pascal standing firmly behind Jimmy Kimmel, there is considerable pressure on the company to reconsider its position. The outcome of this dispute carries implications beyond one show, raising questions about corporate influence over artistic and journalistic expression.
This episode serves as a critical moment for industry discussions about freedom of speech, the role of media companies, and the responsibilities of artists who are caught between corporate interests and personal convictions. How Disney addresses these challenges could set important precedents for the future of entertainment and talk shows alike.
