Podcast ‘I’ve Had It’ Faces Mass Advertiser Exodus Following Charlie Kirk Controversy

A Viral Clip Sparks Corporate Backlash

The popular progressive-leaning podcast I’ve Had It is currently navigating a major corporate crisis after a 39-second video clip went viral on the social media platform X. The footage, which has garnered nearly 6 million views, features hosts Jennifer Welch and Angie “Pumps” Sullivan laughing at an online post referencing Charlie Kirk, the right-wing political activist who was assassinated in 2025.

The reaction to the clip was swift and severe. Following the widespread circulation of the video, at least nine companies have publicly severed ties with the podcast, citing the hosts’ behavior as inconsistent with their corporate values. Among those distancing themselves from the program are Chewy, Cash App, Zenni, Casper, and Honeylove.

Advertisers Denounce the Commentary

Chewy was one of the first major brands to address the controversy. In a statement posted to X, the company clarified that it does not support the podcast and unequivocally condemned violence in all forms. Chewy CEO Sumit Singh reinforced this stance, emphasizing that the hosts’ remarks did not align with the company’s principles. Similarly, Honeylove issued a statement on Sunday confirming the end of its partnership, reiterating that violence is never acceptable.

The podcast hosts responded to the mounting pressure on Saturday via an Instagram post. In their statement, Welch and Sullivan acknowledged that their reaction in the clip was insensitive. “It was an insensitive joke, and we should not have laughed. We regret it, and we apologize,” the statement read. The hosts further noted that regardless of political differences, they believe there is nothing humorous about gun violence. As part of their response, the podcast announced a donation to Everytown for Gun Safety, a prominent U.S. organization dedicated to preventing gun violence.

Allegations of a Coordinated Campaign

In a follow-up video shared on Instagram this past Sunday, Welch and Sullivan alleged that Turning Point USA, the organization previously led by Kirk, is actively spearheading an online campaign aimed at canceling their podcast. This incident marks another instance where public figures have faced professional repercussions for comments regarding the late activist. Previous controversies include the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show by ABC, as well as disciplinary actions taken by companies like Office Depot and Nasdaq against employees who made negative public remarks about Kirk.

Broader Tensions in Media and Tech

The fallout surrounding I’ve Had It occurs amidst a wider climate of tension regarding political commentary in the media space. The podcast Pivot with Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway has also faced calls for an advertising boycott following remarks made by Galloway during the 2026 Pivot Tour. Galloway, a tech industry academic, labeled Elon Musk a “traitor to the West” and made references to the Rosenbergs, who were executed for espionage during the Cold War.

Galloway’s comments drew immediate criticism from figures such as Jason Calacanis and UC San Diego professor Brian Keating. Blake Scholl, CEO of Boom Supersonic, publicly criticized Galloway—who is an investor in the aerospace company—and stated that he is working to arrange a buyout of the academic’s shares. Scholl noted that while he does not mind disagreements, he viewed the rhetoric as a step too far.

Source: businessinsider.com