Media News Daily: Top Stories for 09/18/2025

ABC Suspends Jimmy Kimmel After Controversial Comments on Charlie Kirk Assassination

Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel was suspended indefinitely by ABC after making comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. On his show, Kimmel linked the suspected shooter to supporters of Donald Trump, prompting backlash. Sinclair, Inc., a major ABC affiliate group, ceased airing Kimmel’s show in 30 markets. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr hinted at possible regulatory action, and the White House endorsed ABC’s decision. President Trump celebrated the suspension on Truth Social, criticizing Kimmel and other late-night hosts. (Read More) (News Facts Network Rating)

Judge Upholds Jury Verdict Against Meta Over Flo App Data Sharing

A federal judge rejected Meta’s request to overturn a jury verdict that found the company violated California’s wiretap law by collecting data from users of the Flo menstrual tracking app. The jury concluded Meta intentionally recorded confidential user interactions. Meta argued that users consented via Facebook’s terms of service, but Judge James Donato ruled the disclosures were ambiguous and insufficient. Meta’s argument that Flo users had no expectation of confidentiality was also dismissed. Remedies will be discussed at a future hearing. (Read More) (MediaPost Rating)

Nexstar Lays Off Staff at The Hill Despite Recent Union Contract

Nexstar Media Group has laid off or offered buyouts to 18 employees at The Hill, including six unionized journalists. This move comes just two months after The Hill’s staff ratified their first collective bargaining agreement, which included salary increases, expanded leave, and AI-related protections. Despite securing those gains, the union criticized Nexstar for pursuing layoffs while reporting record profits. The Hill remains a top political news destination online, but Nexstar cited weak advertising markets in its latest financial report. (Read More) (The Desk Rating)