Fox News host Brian Kilmeade has been forced into a humiliating apology after making incendiary remarks on live television, suggesting that homeless individuals with mental illness "should be killed". The shocking comments were made during a discussion on crime in New York, sending social media into a frenzy and drawing condemnation from mental health advocates.
The controversy erupted on Tuesday's edition of Fox & Friends, a flagship morning show on the conservative network. Kilmeade and his co-hosts were analysing a recent incident where a woman was pushed in front of a subway train when he made the extreme statement.
Outrage and Immediate Backlash
Viewers and critics reacted with swift fury to Kilmeade's suggestion, labelling the comments as "dangerous", "dehumanising", and "irresponsible". The segment quickly went viral, with many calling for his dismissal from the network.
Mental health charities and homeless advocacy groups were particularly vocal in their condemnation. They argued that such rhetoric from a high-profile media personality stigmatises vulnerable people and could incite violence against those living on the streets.
A Swift and Unusual Apology
In a rare move for the channel, Kilmeade returned to the air later in the same show to offer a full retraction. Appearing visibly chastened, he addressed the camera directly.
"I deeply regret what I said earlier. I in no way believe that people struggling with mental illness should be killed. I was wrong and I am sorry," he stated, attempting to quell the growing anger.
This public climb-down is unusual for Fox News personalities, who typically stand by controversial statements. The speed of the apology suggests the network feared significant reputational damage from the incident.
A Pattern of Controversial Commentary
This is not the first time Kilmeade has found himself at the centre of a media storm. His history of making inflammatory and often inaccurate statements has frequently drawn criticism, though rarely resulting in such a direct and prompt apology.
The incident raises further questions about the tone and responsibility of discourse on major news networks, particularly when discussing sensitive issues involving society's most marginalised groups.
