Brian Kilmeade issued an on-air apology Sunday, during Fox & Friends program, addressing co-host Lawrence Jones directly. He stated: "During that discussion, I wrongly said they should get lethal injections. I apologize for that extremely callous remark. I’m obviously aware that not all mentally ill homeless people act as the perpetrator did in North Carolina, and that so many homeless people deserve our empathy and compassion."
He also posted a video of the apology on X (formerly Twitter), captioned "My apology," which garnered over 2,300 likes but also significant backlash, including calls for his resignation.
My apology pic.twitter.com/VeoLkpDyPq
— Brian Kilmeade (@kilmeade) September 14, 2025
Critics noted that the apology specifically addressed the "lethal injections" phrasing but omitted the "just kill ‘em" part, and some viewed it as insincere or half-hearted, arguing it revealed deeper beliefs rather than a mere slip. Fox News has not indicated any disciplinary action against Kilmeade, who has been a co-host since 2006 and also hosts a radio show.
Kilmeade's original comment appeared to stem from frustration over repeat offenders and perceived failures in the system, but it was widely interpreted as advocating for euthanasia or execution of vulnerable populations, including those with mental illnesses, children, and veterans among the homeless. Kilmeade later tied it to voting patterns in affected cities, urging North Carolina residents to "wake up" and elect better officials.