Erika Kirk, widow of conservative figure Charlie Kirk, expressed deep distress after a controversial article from the site Jezebel described a fictional act of paying for curses to be placed on her husband. The piece was published just two days before Charlie Kirk was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. Though the article was seemingly written as satire or provocation, it deeply unsettled the Kirk family, particularly Erika.
Megyn Kelly, a well-known media host, harshly criticized the Jezebel article, calling it “vile” and accusing the site of irresponsibly targeting a Christian family. She stated the Kirks were so disturbed by the curses mentioned that they sought prayer and spiritual support the night before Charlie’s death. Kelly argued that such rhetoric contributes to a dangerous climate and urged accountability from both the publication and the online platform mentioned.
Jezebel’s article described Kirk in politically charged terms and included an admission by an anonymous author of paying for symbolic curses against him due to his controversial views. While there is no evidence connecting this to the shooting, the timing of the piece added to public concern and outrage. The article has since been taken down, with an editor’s note condemning the violence.
Erika Kirk later shared emotional details about Charlie’s final moments and their last conversation. She recounted the warnings from friends and faith leaders about his safety and her suggestion that he take more precautions, which he declined. Erika said he remained committed to his public speaking despite increased threats.
Following his death, Erika has struggled with grief, describing how she has avoided their bedroom and clung to everyday items that remind her of her husband. She also described her final moments with Charlie in the hospital in deeply spiritual terms.
Calls have been made for platforms to review content policies and for greater sensitivity toward grieving families.