ABC blasted for romanticizing Charlie Kirk murder suspect’s relationship in coverage
New York, NY – ABC News is under fire after correspondent Matt Gutman described text messages from the alleged killer of Charlie Kirk to a transgender partner as “very touching,” sparking accusations that the network romanticized the relationship of a man charged in a brutal public slaying.
During a segment on ABC News Live, Gutman reported on a press conference in which prosecutors revealed messages sent by suspect Tyler Robinson to a partner who identified as female. Robinson allegedly referred to the partner as “my love” and framed the attack as an act of protection. Gutman characterized the exchanges as “robust, self-incriminating and yet, on the other hand, so touching.”
The remarks drew swift backlash online and in media circles, with critics accusing ABC of softening the image of the alleged murderer while downplaying the crime itself. Kirk, a conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed in front of thousands of people during a public event last week.
Gutman later doubled down on-air, calling the story “heartbreaking on so many levels” and noting what he described as “the duality” between the violence and the personal side of Robinson’s life.
“I don’t think I’ve ever experienced a press conference in which we’ve read text messages that are so fulsome, so apparently self-incriminating and yet, on the other hand, so touching,” Gutman said.
ABC has not issued a formal statement in response to the criticism. However, Gutman has faced widespread condemnation on social media, with many viewers arguing the coverage inappropriately spotlighted Robinson’s relationship instead of focusing on the killing of Kirk.
The case remains ongoing, with Robinson in custody and facing charges connected to the fatal shooting.
Key Points
- ABC News correspondent Matt Gutman described texts between Charlie Kirk’s accused killer and a transgender partner as “very touching.”
- Critics blasted the coverage as romanticizing the suspect while minimizing the brutality of Kirk’s killing.
- Robinson remains in custody as the investigation and legal proceedings continue.
The fallout shows how words can turn coverage into controversy.