WASHINGTON (TNND) -- ABC has suspended late-night host Jimmy Kimmel following controversial remarks he made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, a move that has ignited a fierce debate over free speech, media responsibility, and political double standards.

Kimmel suggested during his monologue that the suspected shooter could have been a supporter of President Donald Trump, even though investigators have indicated the evidence points in the opposite direction. Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr accused Kimmel of fueling a "dangerous false narrative" and warned that the FCC could take action against ABC. Within hours of Carr's comments, the network announced Kimmel's suspension.

The decision drew swift backlash from Kimmel's allies. Democratic lawmakers, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, called the suspension "despicable." Fellow late-night host Stephen Colbert said it amounted to "blatant censorship," and several celebrities rallied to Kimmel's defense.

At the same time, critics noted that many of those defending Kimmel remained silent when others were "canceled" or silenced in recent years -- including President Trump, Roseanne Barr, Gina Carano, Dave Chappelle, Megyn Kelly, Joe Rogan, and J.K. Rowling.

Meanwhile, Hollywood stars who expressed sympathy for Kirk's death have faced backlash of their own. Actress Jamie Lee Curtis spoke on a podcast about disagreeing with Kirk politically but hoping he felt connected to his faith in his final moments. Broadway veteran Kristin Chenoweth, who shared an Instagram post offering prayers for Kirk's family, told NY1 she simply "had a human moment of reflection." Actor Rainn Wilson, best known for his role on The Office, said he was disturbed to hear some in liberal circles express relief over Kirk's killing.

The controversy may not end with Kimmel. FCC Chairman Carr has signaled that ABC's daytime talk show The View, known for its sharp criticism of President Trump, could face scrutiny next.