Nexstar Media Group Suspends Andy Cohen Broadcasts Following Controversial Comments on Charlie Kirk

Nexstar Media Group announced on Wednesday that it will indefinitely preempt broadcasts of shows featuring Andy Cohen on its Bravo affiliates after the reality TV personality made remarks about the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s assassination.

“Mr. Cohen’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national discourse,” said Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar’s broadcasting division.

Earlier on Wednesday, Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr had urged local broadcasters to reconsider airing programs featuring Cohen due to the sensitive nature of his remarks.

Cohen, known for his candid and often provocative commentary on pop culture and politics, had addressed the aftermath of Kirk’s death in several statements. In an Instagram post, he expressed sorrow and called for unity, saying that “shooting another human is horrible and monstrous” and urged people to stop the “angry finger-pointing” that erupted after Kirk’s death. He extended his thoughts not only to Kirk’s family but also to “the many families affected by senseless violence.”

On his Bravo talk segments, Cohen shifted from condolences to sharp commentary on political rhetoric surrounding the killing. He criticized political leaders for exploiting the tragedy, including former President Donald Trump, for blaming the “radical left” in his initial response. Cohen argued that the president has fueled inflammatory rhetoric in the past.

“He’s trying to capitalize on Charlie Kirk’s death while ignoring the consequences of his own words,” Cohen said, according to sources. He also condemned broader political opportunism, asserting that some politicians and media figures have politicized the tragedy instead of focusing on solutions.

Cohen further criticized reactions from the public and media, highlighting instances of people who cheered Kirk’s death and calling such responses “vile” and “inhumane.” While acknowledging “extraordinarily vile responses” from multiple sides, he warned that political violence only deepens national divisions.

In a more controversial moment, Cohen speculated on the alleged shooter Tyler Robinson’s political affiliations during a segment. Cohen suggested connections to certain movements, though law enforcement indicated Robinson espoused leftist ideology. The discrepancy drew media attention, with some outlets scrutinizing Cohen’s remarks and his treatment of conflicting reports.

The comments have also drawn regulatory attention. Following Cohen’s remarks, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr reportedly warned Bravo and parent company NBCUniversal that their programming could mislead viewers, raising questions about media responsibility in discussing politically sensitive events.

The controversy prompted Nexstar’s decision to preempt Cohen’s programs in multiple markets, reflecting tensions between live commentary, political violence, and broadcast accountability. It is not yet clear how many stations will preempt his shows. Nexstar Media Group owns or partners with over 200 stations across approximately 116–117 U.S. media markets. Estimates suggest that dozens—or potentially more than 100—stations could be affected.

Digital news site LateNighter, which covers the late-night and daytime talk-show landscape, estimates that Cohen’s first-run segments draw around 1.8 million viewers, meaning the preemptions could have a significant impact on ratings and audience reach.

This decision underscores the growing challenges faced by networks and broadcasters in balancing provocative commentary with sensitivity, particularly when discussing high-profile tragedies. Cohen’s outspoken approach, which has long been a hallmark of his career, has collided with regulatory scrutiny and audience expectations, highlighting the complex interplay between entertainment, politics, and social responsibility.