Disney Stood Up By 90s Music Big Names Over Jimmy Kimmel Suspension

Sarah McLachlan and Jewel's surprise performance was a no-show as the duo dropped out from the premiere of Disney's Lilith Fair documentary, in protest against Jimmy Kimmel's cancellation.

"ABC" and its affiliates have faced criticism over the cancellation of the late-night show host following his comment about the late Charlie Kirk. Meanwhile, Kirk's supporters and friends have been celebrating Kimmel's suspension.

Since his viral cancellation, Jimmy Kimmel has received support from other Disney stars, co-late-night show hosts, and the public, but has not escaped some backlash.

In protest, two of the biggest 90's music stars cancelled their performance at the premiere of Disney's highly anticipated Lilith Fair documentary over the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel because of his comments on the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The atmosphere of the event took a turn for to shock as the supposed celebratory event turned political and deeply personal. Disney has yet to speak on the matter officially, but the effect of the removal of Kimmel's show has spread beyond the studio.

Following the screening of the documentary celebrating the groundbreaking all-female music festival, the artists were set to perform, but did not.

Instead, McLachlan spoke, expressing gratitude to the attendees and apologizing for not performing as intended, saying they chose to "stand in solidarity in support of free speech." The crowd erupted in cheers in response to her bold stand.

The Daily Mail reported that earlier, before the artist's speech on stage, she had acknowledged the internal conflict she felt about attending the show due to the current events. She described the film as a gift and noted that she hopes it inspires positive changes in communities. 

"ABC," which is owned by Disney, suspended Kimmel over the remarks he made on air about the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Due to this controversy, Nexstar and Sinclair, two of America's largest local TV station owners, announced they would not carry Jimmy Kimmel Live.

Disney has then pulled the show from airing indefinitely as they face mounting pressure from all sides, including from the Trump administration. Disney remains largely silent on the Kimmel controversy, even as President Trump attacks media organizations he claims are illegal.

Disney has yet to release an official statement declaring their stance, but actions speak louder. At the Sunday night red carpet event, no members of the press were allowed before the screening to avoid uncomfortable questions on the suspension and Disney's role.

The Blast reported that popular music artist and actress Olivia Rodrigo took to Instagram to show her support for Kimmel. She lashed out at the network for cancelling his show, terming it an abuse of power.

In addition to her sharp words of support for the suspended show host, the actress reposted a statement from SAG-AFTRA and posted  "I stand with Jimmy Kimmel and I stand for freedom of speech" on her Instagram stories.

Rodrigo also reposted David Letterman's remarks, where he compared the suspension to an act of authoritarianism.

Letterman also said in an interview, "You can't go around firing somebody because you're fearful or trying to suck up to an authoritarian, a criminal, administration in the Oval Office," clearly declaring his stance on the matter.

Although the suspended late-night show host has received support from many, he also faces his fair share of backlash. Hollywood Actor James Woods ripped Kimmel apart on X. Initially, he feigned support, but then he took to his X account, calling Kimmel names.

He wrote, referring to Kimmel as a fellow artist, a decent person, and a good fellow, adding that he was heartbroken with the turn of events. All these good words were soon disannulled as he later added, "Just Kidding, Jimbo. Eat Sh-t."

Also, replying to a post of Stephen Colbert on a New York Post article, he referred to Kimmel and everyone following him as douchebags. The Blast reported that conservative political commentator Benny Johnson wrote that sources say Kimmel's show was dead with nonexistent viewership.

A day after Kimmel's suspension, the TV host was spotted in Century City heading into a meeting with powerhouse attorney to many other stars, Karl Austen. This move by Kimmel sparks industry speculation that a legal showdown with ABC may be imminent, with a mega payout potentially in sight.

Reportedly, Kimmel's contract with Disney would soon come to an end. Hence, this suspension could be a move to cut him out of the network early. Notwithstanding, Kimmel still has some allies within the network who, sources say, will not push him out.

Will Jimmy Kimmel's Show return to fans' screens?