The killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University on September 10 shocked the nation and ignited debates about political violence. Kirk, 31, was shot mid-appearance during a livestreamed student Q&A. Police identified 22-year-old Tyler Robinson as the gunman, charging him with first-degree murder and unlawful firearm use, while prosecutors announced plans to seek the death penalty.
The tragedy drew intense reactions across public and entertainment circles. Some, like Ava Raine and Michael Keaton, sparked backlash with controversial comments, while Jimmy Kimmel faced a brief suspension over a monologue about the incident. Amid this polarized discourse, actor Sean Penn’s remarks stood out for their sober reflection.
Penn condemned the violence but emphasized the importance of maintaining space for vigorous, nonviolent debate. Though he disagreed with nearly all of Kirk’s views, he argued that Kirk was sincere in his convictions, unlike “snake oil salesmen.” Penn said, “We need that guy. We need that debate. The way we kill the fashion of violence is by recognizing that if somebody really believes something, that’s your friend.”
In closing, Penn admitted he was still processing the assassination but worried it signaled that political violence was “coming into fashion.” His comments highlighted the broader danger of escalating hostility, urging Americans to reject violence while protecting the democratic necessity of honest, opposing voices.
