Television Analyst Abruptly Fired After Controversial On-Air Comments About the Shocking Death of Conservative Leader Charlie Kirk, With Viewers, Colleagues, and Executives Expressing Outrage Over the Live Broadcast Remarks That Sparked Immediate Backlash, Heated Debate, and Swift Termination in the Wake of the Assassination
An MSNBC political analyst has been fired following controversial comments made during live coverage of Charlie Kirk’s death. Kirk, 31, a conservative commentator and Turning Point USA co-founder, was shot in the neck on September 10 while speaking at Utah Valley University. Authorities believe the shot came from the roof of a nearby building. Two people initially arrested were later released, having no connection to the killing. The shocking incident quickly spread online, with video clips circulating within minutes. Former President Donald Trump confirmed Kirk’s death on Truth Social, calling him “a martyr for youth in America” and offering condolences to his wife, Erika, and family.
While tributes poured in, some media outlets faced criticism. TMZ apologized after staff were heard laughing during a live segment, clarifying they were reacting to an unrelated video.
MSNBC drew backlash after analyst Matthew Dowd responded to the shooting on air by criticizing Kirk’s rhetoric. Asked about the political climate surrounding such violence, Dowd described Kirk as “divisive” and linked his style to a broader culture of hostility. “Hateful thoughts lead to hateful words, which then lead to hateful actions. And that’s the environment we are in,” he said.
