Mark Ruffalo criticizes Disney over Jimmy Kimmel suspension controversy. [Image Source: SPORTSKEEDA]
Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension from ABC has ignited a heated debate over free speech and political pressure. The host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! recently opened a show by accusing the “MAGA gang” of trying to dissociate themselves from the youth responsible for the murder of Charlie Kirk. He further condemned those on the right for exploiting the incident for political gain, reminding viewers of the January 6 Capitol rioters who wanted to hang then-Vice President Mike Pence for certifying Joe Biden’s 2020 election victory.
Pressure Mounts on Disney and ABC Following Suspension
The day after Kimmel’s controversial monologue, ABC announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would be pre-empted indefinitely. This came amid threats from Brendan Carr, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission and a staunch Donald Trump supporter, who warned of possible regulatory actions against Disney and ABC. NexStar, another media company reliant on FCC approvals for major acquisitions, also pressured Disney to pull the show, contributing to mounting corporate unease.
Mark Ruffalo Joins the Debate, Cautions Disney Against Further Action
Mark Ruffalo, known for his role as the Hulk in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, addressed the situation on social media after reports showed Disney’s stock dropped 7% following Kimmel’s suspension. He warned,
“It’s going to go down a lot further if they cancel his show. Disney does not want to be the ones that broke America.”
Ruffalo’s comments came shortly after he participated in a No Kings online event where he said,
Image of: Mark Ruffalo
“My industry doesn’t really understand what’s happening right now, but what they do understand is our freedom of speech is being attacked.”
Other MCU Stars Show Solidarity with Kimmel and Criticize Disney’s Moves
Mark Ruffalo is not alone among MCU actors voicing concern over the suspension and Disney’s stance. Pedro Pascal, who stars in Fantastic Four: First Steps, publicly supported Kimmel on Instagram, stating,
“Standing with you Jimmy Kimmel Live!”
and urged fans to defend free speech and democracy. Similarly, Marisa Tomei from Spider-Man: No Way Home and Tatiana Maslany of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law have encouraged their followers to cancel subscriptions to Disney-owned streaming services such as Disney+ and ESPN as a form of protest.
Divided Reactions and Uncertain Future for Kimmel’s Show
The suspension has divided public opinion, with many supporting Kimmel’s removal, though none of these supporters appear to have direct ties to the MCU or DC Universe at this time. Meanwhile, Kimmel has not publicly commented on the suspension. Talks between Disney and Kimmel are reportedly ongoing as the company faces criticism for what some consider an assault on free speech, seen by critics as part of a broader attempt linked to President Trump to silence dissenting voices.
Implications for Disney and the Broader Cultural Landscape
Mark Ruffalo’s warning highlights the tension between corporate interests and cultural freedom, with Disney in the spotlight for how it handles politically charged controversies involving high-profile figures like Jimmy Kimmel. The ongoing backlash and calls to cancel subscriptions could have significant consequences on Disney’s reputation and business. As these events unfold, the entertainment industry’s response to political pressures will likely shape the future discourse on freedom of expression in mainstream media.
