Salem Ilese, the singer behind the viral TikTok hit “Mad at Disney,” has released a parody of her song to protest the temporary removal of Jimmy Kimmel from the air. The move came after Kimmel made comments about right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk’s death, which sparked a backlash from the Trump administration and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Ilese’s original 2020 song expressed disillusionment with the reality of romantic relationships after being influenced by Disney films in her childhood. In her new parody, she rewrote the lyrics to advocate for free speech, criticizing Disney for pulling Kimmel’s show amidst pressure from the FCC. The singer sang, “I’m mad at Disney, Disney / They cancelled Jimmy / All for exercising his free speech / Fox News can say whatever / To make Trump look better / But one strike and Kimmel’s off TV.”
The controversy surrounding Kimmel’s removal began when FCC chairman Brendan Carr demanded that ABC take action against the late-night host or risk losing its broadcast license. This led to a widespread outcry over censorship, with many people, including fellow late-night hosts and celebrities, speaking out in support of Kimmel. Some Disney+ and Hulu users even cancelled their subscriptions to protest the move.
Ilese posted a second parody of her song hours before Kimmel’s return to the air, accusing Disney of only reinstating him due to the financial impact of the backlash. She sang, “I’m mad at Disney, Disney / They brought back Jimmy / Only ’cause they couldn’t take the heat / It took an open letter / And upset investors / To stand up against the FCC.” Kimmel has since returned to the air, addressing the controversy in an emotional monologue.
The incident highlights concerns over censorship and the limits of free speech in the media. It also underscores the power of public pressure, as the backlash against Kimmel’s removal appeared to influence Disney’s decision to reinstate him. As the debate over free speech and censorship continues, Ilese’s parodies have added a new layer to the discussion, using her music as a form of protest and advocacy.
