“Olivia Rodrigo Cancels Surprise Disney Performance After Blasting Network Over Jimmy Kimmel Suspension”
Pop superstar Olivia Rodrigo has reportedly pulled out of a surprise Disney performance in the wake of the network’s suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. The 22-year-old singer-songwriter, whose career was launched by the Disney Channel, made headlines after allegedly criticizing the entertainment giant for its decision, which has sparked debate across Hollywood.
Rodrigo was slated to make an unannounced appearance at a Disney+ promotional event tied to her upcoming documentary and soundtrack project. But according to insiders, the performance was abruptly canceled after tensions escalated between Rodrigo’s team and Disney executives.
The drama stems from ABC—Disney’s parent company—suspending Jimmy Kimmel following a politically charged controversy. While Disney has remained tight-lipped about the specifics, the decision has already triggered backlash from fans, comedians, and industry insiders who argue the move was heavy-handed. Rodrigo, who grew up idolizing Kimmel’s sharp humor and unconventional comedy, apparently didn’t hold back in private conversations about the network’s handling of the situation.
“Olivia felt it was hypocritical,” a source close to the singer explained. “She’s someone who values artistic freedom, and she didn’t want to align herself with a company that she felt was silencing one of its most iconic personalities.”
For Rodrigo, the decision wasn’t just political—it was personal. Before her music career skyrocketed with the release of Drivers License in 2021, she was a Disney star, appearing on Bizaardvark and High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. Her departure from the brand had been amicable, but the current controversy seems to have reopened old wounds.
Rodrigo’s fans, meanwhile, are divided. Some praised her for taking a stand against corporate decisions that she sees as unjust, while others lamented the lost opportunity to see her perform in a Disney setting once more. Social media quickly exploded with hashtags like #ISupportOlivia and #BoycottDisney, with many fans drawing parallels to other stars who have clashed with the entertainment giant.
The move also highlights Rodrigo’s evolution from Disney darling to outspoken pop powerhouse. With two Grammy-winning albums and a global tour under her belt, she’s no longer dependent on Disney’s platform to reach audiences. Her refusal to compromise on her principles underscores her growing influence not just in music but also in cultural conversations.
Disney has not publicly commented on the reported cancellation, and Rodrigo’s team has also remained silent on the matter. Still, the speculation swirling around the incident is yet another example of how the Kimmel suspension is sending shockwaves far beyond late-night TV.
Whether or not the canceled performance will affect her upcoming projects remains unclear. What is certain, however, is that Olivia Rodrigo has once again proven she’s willing to stand her ground—even when it means walking away from the company that helped launch her career
