Danica Patrick, the renowned NASCAR driver and current F1 commentator, expressed strong criticism over Jimmy Kimmel’s return to his late-night program following a suspension that drew nationwide attention. Addressing the controversy just days after ABC announced Kimmel’s comeback, Patrick offered candid remarks and discussed the implications of such public incidents for both media and society, making “Danica Patrick on Jimmy Kimmel” a topic of debate.
ABC’s Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Following Monologue Controversy
Last week, ABC, owned by Disney, suspended Jimmy Kimmel from hosting his show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, after he declined to alter content in his opening monologue regarding the death of activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel’s remarks about Kirk, who was fatally shot at a rally, ignited heated discourse in American political circles and led regulatory authorities such as the FCC to pressure ABC for action.
This incident became a flashpoint in debates about freedom of speech, especially as supporters and critics alike weighed in on how network policies intersect with on-air commentary. Many members of the public and media professionals advocated for the suspension to be lifted, citing concerns over constitutional rights and the influence of corporations in shaping political discussion on television.
Danica Patrick Shares Blunt Perspective on Instagram
Danica Patrick shared her unfiltered response to news of Jimmy Kimmel’s impending return on her Instagram stories, directly addressing the responsibility of employers, the direction of comedy, and the business pressures in media.
“Totally fine. An employer has a choice to hire and fire and run a business. I don’t think he is as funny as he used to be, but that little problem will take care of itself in time. He will either start making real jokes and not stupid, distasteful emotional jabs or he won’t.”
– Danica Patrick, F1 pundit and NASCAR driver
“When I raced, I never talked about politics and religion. I understood the unspoken agreement to be PC. All that is ever at play is money. And you better believe if it’s not flowing something goes. Clock is ticking again,”
– Danica Patrick, F1 pundit and NASCAR driver
Patrick’s commentary mirrors her broader stances on free speech, cancel culture, and political involvement from public figures. Her perspective emphasizes market forces and business incentives as primary motivators behind media decisions, rather than values or ideology alone.
Patrick Reflects on Charlie Kirk’s Influence and Her Political Journey
Patrick has maintained a vocal presence in national conversations concerning culture and politics, often sharing her evolving perspective on public platforms. After Charlie Kirk’s death, she spoke at his funeral, underscoring how he shaped her trajectory into politics and inspired her with his energy and outlook:
“His mission to bring conservative values into high schools and colleges helped make being a republican cool again in the youth. He was able to take a rally and turn it into a high energy fun party! He was able to take his vision and passion and turn it into reality.”
– Danica Patrick, F1 pundit and NASCAR driver
“It’s in times like these that we have to look at humanity and ask why these things happen and then the most important question… what do we do next? I don’t have the answer. But I know it’s not fight fire with fire, even though anger is a dominant emotion. We need an answer that will change the world forever.”
– Danica Patrick, F1 pundit and NASCAR driver
Patrick has consistently backed conservative causes and last year voiced clear support for Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, aligning herself with the current Trump Administration. Her statements at Kirk’s funeral also touched on the need for transformative solutions over escalating animosity.
Public Outcry and Broader Implications
The events leading up to and following Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension have intensified ongoing debates in America regarding cancel culture, free speech, and the intersection of politics with entertainment. Patrick’s views, along with those of fans and critics nationwide, highlight the complex environment celebrities navigate when choosing to address or avoid contentious political issues.
The controversy has impacted professionals across media and sports, including high-profile figures like Charles Leclerc and Daniel Ricciardo, who are often noted for their diplomatic approaches amid fan scrutiny. As this conversation develops, the significance lies in how networks, sponsors, and viewers alike continue to shape the boundaries of appropriate commentary and the sustainability of public figures in polarizing climates.
