After the moving gesture of Erika Kirk, who publicly forgave the murderer of her husband Charlie Kirk before millions of people in the United States and the world, actor Tim Allen announced on her social networks that, inspired by her example, she has found in her heart the strength to forgive the man who removed her father’s life more than half a century.
Allen, remembered for his role in Santa clause and as the voice of Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story, wrote in x that “impacted her deeply” when Erika Kirk pronounced the words about the man who killed her husband: “That man … that young man … I forgive him.”
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“I have fought for more than 60 years to forgive the man who killed my dad. Today I will say those words while writing: ‘I forgive the man who killed my father.’ Peace be with you,” said Allen.
When Erika Kirk spoke the words on the man who killed her husband: “That man… that young man… I forgive him.” That moment deeply affected me. I have struggled for over 60 years to forgive the man who killed my Dad. I will say those words now as I type: “ I forgive the man who…
– Tim Allen (@ofctimallen) September 25, 2025
The renowned Christian actor, who became famous in the 90s as Tim “The Man of Tools” Taylor in the Home Improvement series, revealed that he has loaded with this pain since the age of 11, when in 1964 a drunk driver caused the death of his father. Now, thanks to the testimony of a widow who chose to forgive, he decided to take a decisive step in his spiritual life.
His statement has moved millions of followers, who have also shared experiences of loss and the fight to forgive. Some, inspired by their message, decided to publicly express the forgiveness to those who caused pain; Others, on the other hand, admitted that they still do not find the strength to do so, although they see in Allen and in Erika Kirk a path to peace.
In the midst of this wave of testimonies, the teaching of Christ resonates about forgiveness, remembered by Pope Leo XIV at his general audience of August 20: “The forgiveness that Jesus teaches us does not expect the repentance of the offender, but is offered first, as a free gift, even before being welcomed. It is not forgotten or weakness, but the ability to leave others free.”
Translated and adapted by ACI Press. Originally published in National Catholic Register.
Alyssa Murphy
Alyssa Murphy is the Executive Editor of Digital Assets of the National Catholic Register. He began his career in radio waves in San Francisco and has worked on all facets of the media. Alyssa likes to write and cover stories that inspire and encourage.