Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was assassinated during a public event on September 10, 2023, at Utah Valley University. His death was captured on livestream, resulting in widespread trauma among witnesses and associates. In the aftermath, Erika Kirk, his widow, has faced severe online harassment, including mockery and conspiracy theories regarding the circumstances of her husband's murder.

Some individuals have expressed support for the alleged shooter, Tyler James Robinson, who faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated murder. Erika Kirk has publicly condemned the online vitriol directed at her and her family, describing it as a harmful phenomenon exacerbated by social media. She has called for justice and expressed frustration with the narratives surrounding her husband's death, emphasizing the emotional toll such speculation has on her family.

Conspiracy theories have proliferated, particularly from figures associated with right-wing media, including Candace Owens, who has made unfounded claims about the involvement of various entities in Kirk's assassination. These theories have included allegations of betrayal from those close to Kirk, which Erika Kirk has vehemently denied. She has highlighted the dangers of misinformation and its impact on individuals and communities, particularly in a politically charged environment.

In a separate development, Erika Kirk appeared on the program The Five on December 9, where she discussed her experience of forgiving her husband's assassin. She described hate as a consuming force and emphasized that forgiveness should be viewed as a strength. Additionally, co-hosts of The Five have formed a Bible study group to honor Charlie Kirk's memory, reflecting a personal response to the tragedy, although this has drawn criticism from some observers who oppose the program's political stance. Erika Kirk's remarks and the subsequent actions of the show's hosts illustrate the complex interplay between personal grief, public discourse, and political identity, as well as the broader societal implications of how public figures and their families are treated in the wake of violence.