Disney, one of the most powerful names in global entertainment, is grappling with massive backlash and financial losses after suspending late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. The decision has sparked a growing Disney boycott, raising concerns about the company’s reputation and stock market performance.
$3.87 Billion Market Value Drop
According to Culture Base (September 20, 2025), Disney’s market value plunged by an estimated $3.87 billion overnight. While Disney has not officially confirmed these numbers, several reports highlight a noticeable decline in stock prices following the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC.
The controversy began after Kimmel made remarks about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk’s assassination. ABC’s move to suspend him triggered heated debates about free speech, political influence, and the future of comedy on television.
Boycott Disney Movement Gains Traction
The decision quickly ignited a social media firestorm, with hashtags like #BoycottDisney trending on X (formerly Twitter). Many users claim Disney’s actions represent a direct attack on free expression, while others see it as a politically motivated move.
Frustrated subscribers have announced cancellations of Disney+, Hulu, and ABC. Some have even vowed to avoid upcoming big-budget releases such as Zootopia 2 and Avatar 3.
Celebrities Rally Behind Jimmy Kimmel
Kimmel’s suspension drew immediate support from high-profile figures, including former President Barack Obama and fellow late-night hosts Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Fallon, and Jon Stewart. Many critics argue Disney caved to political pressure, pointing to past attacks from former President Donald Trump directed at Kimmel.
Actress Tatiana Maslany (She-Hulk: Attorney at Law) publicly urged her fans to cancel their Disney subscriptions. Actor Misha Collins revealed on X that he ended his Disney+ membership, while Wil Wheaton pushed for a nationwide “day of cancellations” on BlueSky to protest Disney’s actions.
ABC Affiliates Join the Controversy
The Disney-ABC controversy escalated further when Nexstar, which owns 32 ABC affiliates and is in the middle of a $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, refused to air Kimmel’s show. The move came after Kimmel’s comments on the Kirk case. FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr even threatened to review ABC’s license—despite having no actual authority to revoke it in this situation.
Shortly after, Sinclair Broadcasting, another conservative media group, also pulled the show across 34 ABC affiliates. Altogether, nearly 25% of ABC’s 250 affiliates dropped Jimmy Kimmel Live!
What This Means for Disney’s Future
Kimmel’s contract with ABC ends next year, and discussions about his future with the network are already underway. Since 2003, he has been a staple of ABC’s late-night lineup and has hosted major cultural events, including the Academy Awards.
However, the current backlash poses a serious challenge for Disney. The combination of financial losses, a growing boycott movement, and political pressure threatens not only Kimmel’s career but also the company’s broader media empire. Analysts warn that if Disney continues to bend under pressure, shows like ABC’s The View could be the next target.
Also Read: Suspect in Charlie Kirk’s Assassination Surrenders Peacefully, Sheriff Reveals
