Hollywood stars defended free speech after Jimmy Kimmel’s show suspension. Selena Gomez, Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, and many other Hollywood stars have signed an ACLU-backed open letter. The letter condemned the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live, pulled off-air by Disney-owned ABC after Kimmel’s comment about Charlie Kirk.
Over 400 Signatories Join the Cause
As reported by foreign media, more than 400 Hollywood celebrities signed the letter on Monday, September 22. Their action came less than a week after ABC placed Kimmel’s late-night show on indefinite hiatus following his controversial remarks.
Defending Free Expression
The ACLU emphasized constitutional rights in the letter. “We the people must never accept government threats to our freedom of speech,” it stated. Additionally, the letter highlighted how retaliation against entertainers undermines democracy. It called Kimmel’s removal “a dark moment for freedom of speech in our nation.”
Broader Concerns Raised
The letter warned that silencing voices extends beyond artists and entertainers. It mentioned teachers, students, universities, researchers, and government employees also facing direct threats to expression. Moreover, it stressed that efforts to intimidate individuals contradict the principles America was founded upon.
A Call for Unity
The signatories urged Americans across political affiliations to stand together. They reminded readers that if one voice is silenced, everyone’s rights are at risk. Therefore, the letter urged citizens to join the ACLU in defending constitutional freedoms.
Notable Celebrity Support
In solidarity with Kimmel, notable names including Tom Hanks, Pedro Pascal, Diego Luna, and Meryl Streep signed the letter. Furthermore, stars such as Robert De Niro, Jane Fonda, Olivia Rodrigo, Natalie Portman, and Mark Ruffalo added their support. The extensive list reflected the entertainment industry’s unified stance on protecting free speech.
