Has Trump cancelled Jimmy Kimmel over Charlie Kirk?

37 snips

Sep 18, 2025

Highlights include insights from Donald Trump's recent UK visit and a discussion on his relationship with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The hosts delve into the geopolitical implications of their talks on Gaza and Ukraine. A major talking point is ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel after his remarks on the killing of Charlie Kirk, sparking a debate on free speech and the future of late-night television. Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at the press conference dynamics and the intersection of politics and media.

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ANECDOTE

Inside The Chequers Press Conference

Sarah Smith sat on the US side during the Chequers press conference and described the setting and tone in detail.
She said Donald Trump behaved more amiably and disciplined than she had ever seen him.

INSIGHT

Pageantry Bolstered A Respectful Bond

Sarah Smith noted strong body language and mutual affection between Trump and Starmer during the joint appearance.
She suggested flattery and pageantry had bolstered a genuine respectful relationship between the two leaders.

INSIGHT

Friendship Without Policy Influence

Susie Wiles told Sarah Smith the president makes decisions in America's interest irrespective of allies' views.
Sarah concluded Starmer bought the ability to disagree with Trump without suffering personal consequences.

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Donald Trump has finished his state visit to the UK and it ended with a joint press conference with the British PM Keir Starmer. What did the two leaders say about Gaza and Ukraine, why was Epstein not really mentioned, and what does it tell us about the relationship between the two countries? Sarah - who was in the room with Trump and Starmer at Chequers - also reveals what Susie Wiles, the US president’s chief of staff, told her about Trump.

The other big topic discussed - and the story dominating US headlines - is the broadcaster ABC’s decision to take Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show off the air after his comments on the killing of Charlie Kirk. Justin, Marianna and Sarah unpack what that means for late night talk shows and free speech in America.

HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations Senior Correspondent

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This episode was made by Purvee Pattni, George Dabby, Alix Pickles and Rufus Gray. The technical producer was Mark Pickett. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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