On a recent episode of “The Five,” co-host Jesse Watters sparked debate by drawing an analogy between Disney’s decision to lift Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension and the legacy of Johnny Carson, a former Tonight Show host who had previously criticized the network. The conversation centered around Kimmel’s recent comments about Disney’s handling of the Star Wars franchise, which led to his temporary suspension. Watters’ comparison raised questions about the boundaries of free speech and the role of media criticism in corporate decisions.
Kimmel, a long-time Tonight Show host who later moved to late-night television, became a prominent figure after taking over from Jay Leno. His comments about Disney’s Star Wars movies, particularly the handling of the franchise after Walt Disney Studios acquired Lucasfilm, led to his suspension. Disney cited concerns about potential harm to its brand and business interests. The network later reversed its decision, allowing Kimmel to return to his show.
Watters’ remarks have sparked discussion about the role of media in holding corporations accountable. While some viewers applauded his boldness, others criticized the comparison as misguided, arguing that Carson and Kimmel were in different eras of television history and faced different challenges. The incident highlights the ongoing debate about free speech in the media and the influence of corporate interests on public discourse.