KMBC 9 News recently reported on the national controversy surrounding ABC’s indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! following comments Kimmel made about political reactions to the murder of Charlie Kirk. The piece highlights the broader public backlash, including protests outside Disney headquarters and frames the event as part of a larger conversation about the boundaries of free speech and government influence on media companies.
The story prominently features Lathrop GPM Partner Bernie Rhodes, who raised concerns about the government’s potential pressure on ABC. Rhodes said what alarmed him was the FCC chairman’s alleged suggestion that ABC should take action against Kimmel, warning that such government involvement could threaten the independence of media outlets. He emphasized that even though he doesn’t personally watch Kimmel, the principle at stake matters deeply: if the government can force one show off the air, it could do the same to any news program. Rhodes also reflected on the seriousness of the moment, noting that in nearly 50 years of First Amendment work, he had “never seen it be this bad,” though he remained optimistic about the enduring strength of constitutional protections.
To read the full piece, visit KMBC 9 News here: First Amendment Attorney Warns of Government Pressure After Jimmy Kimmel Suspension