Pedro Pascal Speaks Out on Free Speech After Jimmy Kimmel Backlash

Pedro Pascal has voiced his support for Jimmy Kimmel after ABC suspended the comedian’s late-night show. Kimmel’s show was taken off the air indefinitely following a controversial monologue on September 15, in which he criticized MAGA supporters’ reaction to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Kimmel said, “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

The remarks drew criticism from the Federal Communications Commission chairman Brendan Carr, who called Kimmel’s comments “some of the sickest conduct possible” and hinted that the agency might take action against Disney.

Soon after, major station groups Nexstar and Sinclair announced they would stop airing Kimmel’s show on their ABC affiliates. ABC later confirmed the indefinite suspension, reportedly following instructions from Disney executives Dana Walden and CEO Bob Iger.

In response, Pedro Pascal posted on Instagram to show his support for Kimmel. He wrote, “Standing with you, Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and added, “Defend free speech” and “defend democracy.”

Pascal isn’t the only actor speaking out. Tatiana Maslany encouraged fans to cancel their Disney+ and Hulu subscriptions, while Marisa Tomei, who plays Aunt May in the MCU, also urged followers to unsubscribe from Disney-owned channels, including Marvel, ABC, and ESPN.

Maslany previously starred in She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, though her future projects with Disney are not yet clear.

The situation has sparked a debate about free speech, corporate influence, and the power of major media companies. Several high-profile actors are using their platforms to defend Kimmel and push back against Disney’s decision.

Pascal and other stars are making a bold stand for free speech, but it’s also a reminder of how quickly media decisions can escalate into public controversies. Do you agree with their stance? Share your thoughts in the comments.