Jennings criticized the decision, sarcastically stating, ‘So his employer suspended him for being insensitive, and we don’t live in an authoritarian country? Got it.’ Olbermann then responded with a now-deleted post on X, directly threatening Jennings with the ominous warning: ‘You’re next.’

Dustin Grage, a columnist at Townhall, posted a screenshot of Olbermann’s deleted message, which Jennings retweeted while tagging FBI Director Kash Patel, escalating the incident further. In another post, Olbermann took a jab, calling Jennings an ‘amateur.’

The heated dialogue formed part of the reactions to ABC’s declaration that Kimmel would return to screens without apologizing for his remarks, which insinuated that Kirk’s killing was being politically exploited by conservatives. Olbermann continued the exchange by suggesting that Jennings could end up off television next, advising him to ‘send a tape to Real America’s Voice.’

Olbermann’s posts came shortly after Sinclair Broadcast Group, a significant ABC affiliate, announced plans to remove Jimmy Kimmel Live! in protest against Kimmel’s comments. In response, Olbermann, previously a host of ESPN’s SportsCenter, criticized Sinclair, stating their actions were inadequate and should be further extended. He harshly commented, ‘Burn in hell, Sinclair, alongside Charlie Kirk.’

The harsh post drew widespread condemnation as an inhumane attack on Kirk and his family. Although Olbermann eventually removed the post, it was quickly screenshotted and shared by conservative platforms and watchdogs. Previously known as a major figure on MSNBC and ESPN, Olbermann is increasingly recognized for his provocative and extreme social media presence.

Last week, he defended Kimmel’s suspended monologue, writing: ‘Nothing Jimmy Kimmel said was untrue.’ But critics argue that Olbermann’s escalating rhetoric has moved beyond political commentary and into dangerous territory, especially in a moment of heightened political tensions and media scrutiny. On Monday ABC confirmed Jimmy Kimmel would be back on air on Tuesday night.

Kimmel reportedly negotiated his return with Disney CEO Bob Iger and Disney Entertainment Co-Chair Dana Walden. He is expected to address the controversy on his show but but it remains to be seen whether he will make a full apology. That decision has infuriated affiliate owners like Sinclair, who said they will continue preempting the show on their ABC stations, replacing it with news programming.