'Mad at Disney' TikTok parody expresses anger at Kimmel's suspension

Salem Ilese rewrote the lyrics of her TikTok-viral song to protest for free speech.
 By 
Amanda Yeo
 on 
A screenshot of @salemilese's TikTok video parodying "Mad at Disney," next to a photograph of Jimmy Kimmel.
Credit: Mashable composite: Screenshot of @salemilese on TikTok; Michael Le Brecht / Disney via Getty Images

While everyone is mad at Disney right now, the company's OG hater has now chimed in as well. Salem Ilese has posted a parody of her viral TikTok hit "Mad at Disney" to protest Jimmy Kimmel being pulled off air, rewriting the lyrics to advocate for free speech.

"I am still mad at Disney, and for a different reason this time," Ilese said in a TikTok video posted Monday.

Ilese's original 2020 song was about being disillusioned by the reality of romantic relationships after Disney films elevated her expectations in childhood. In a new TikTok video, the singer has rewritten the first chorus and prechorus of "Mad at Disney" to address Kimmel's situation.


You May Also Like

"I'm mad at Disney, Disney / They cancelled Jimmy / All for exercising his free speech / Fox News can say whatever / To make Trump look better / But one strike and Kimmel's off TV," Ilese sang in the 30-second video. "First Colbert had to call it quits / Guess talking 'bout politics / Is only okay if Trump is flattered."

Disney subsidiary ABC removed Jimmy Kimmel Live! from broadcast last Wednesday amidst threats from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), sparking widespread concerns about free speech. The Trump administration took umbrage at Kimmel's comments on right-wing commentator Charlie Kirk's death, with FCC chairman Brendan Carr demanding ABC "take action" against the late night host or risk its broadcast license.

Numerous people spoke out against Kimmel's suspension, including his fellow late night hosts and celebrities. Some Disney+ and Hulu users even cancelled their subscriptions in support of Kimmel, and to protest against censorship. Even with Kimmel returning to air on Tuesday, it seems few are willing to forgive or forget that he was removed in the first place.

Ilese is apparently one of many people still mad at Disney about Kimmel's suspension. The singer posted a second "Mad at Disney" parody hours before the late show host's return, accusing Disney for only allowing him to return to air after people began cancelling their streaming subscriptions and affecting the company's bottom line. 

"I'm mad at Disney, Disney / They brought back Jimmy / Only 'cause they couldn't take the heat / It took an open letter / And upset investors / To stand up against the FCC," sang Ilese. "But we posted and unsubscribed / And showed them that we decide / We'll stay impossible to silence."

"kissing my dream of being cast as rapunzel goodbye after this one," wrote Ilese.

Amanda Yeo
Amanda Yeo
Assistant Editor

Amanda Yeo is an Assistant Editor at Mashable, covering entertainment, culture, tech, science, and social good. Based in Australia, she writes about everything from video games and K-pop to movies and gadgets.

Mashable Potato

Recommended For You

TikTok users flock to UpScrolled in response to new U.S. owners
A screenshot of UpScrolled's website showing the platform on two mobile phones.

How to unblock TikTok for free
Hand on TikTok app

Broadcasters can livestream World Cup matches on TikTok
 A football featuring the FIFA World Cup Trophy

TikTok says the era of 'delulu' is over. It's time to lock in to reality.
An image of the TikTok logo on a phone screen

More in Life
The Shark FlexStyle is our favorite Dyson Airwrap dupe, and it's $160 off at Amazon right now
The Shark FlexStyle Air Styling & Drying System against a colorful background.

Amazon's sister site is having a one-day sale, and this Bissell TurboClean deal is too good to skip
A woman using the Bissell TurboClean Cordless Hard Floor Cleaner Mop and Lightweight Wet/Dry Vacuum.

The best smartwatch you've never heard of is on sale for less than $50
Nothing CMF Watch 3 Pro in light green with blue and green abstract background

Reddit r/all takes another step into the grave
Reddit logo on phone screen


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 3, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 3, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for April 2, 2026
Connections game on a smartphone

Wordle today: Answer, hints for April 2, 2026
Wordle game on a smartphone

NYT Strands hints, answers for April 3, 2026
A game being played on a smartphone.
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!