Charlie Kirk’s accused killer Tyler Robinson seen ‘smiling’ in viral video during first court appearance – Watch

Social media erupted on Thursday after footage from Charlie Kirk's accused killer Tyler Robinson’s first in-person court appearance went viral, showing the 22-year-old smiling and grinning.

Some netizens claimed that the assassin appeared to be “laughing” and showing “zero remorse” over the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.


Robinson is charged with aggravated murder in the September 10 shooting at Utah Valley University and could face the death penalty if convicted.

Robinson appeared in a Provo city court wearing a formal shirt, tie and slacks, with his wrists and ankles in cuffs. He smiled at his family members who were seated in the front row. His mother was seen wiping her eyes with a tissue while his father and brother sat beside her. It was his first appearance in person after previous hearings were held via video or audio from jail.

The hearing took place as Robinson’s lawyers attempted to restrict media access. The defence claimed that national attention threatens Robinson's right to a fair trial. His legal team requested that Judge Tony Graf ban cameras from the courtroom entirely. Graf did not agree to the permission and instead listened to the public’s right to observe proceedings.

Following a closed hearing on October 24, Judge Graf ruled that Robinson may wear civilian clothing during pretrial hearings but must remain physically restrained for security reasons. He also stopped the media from filming or taking photos of Robinson’s restraints after his lawyers argued that pictures of him in shackles could influence future jurors.

Unsurprisingly, the case drew political attention, with Robinson’s lawyers noting that even the White House commented shortly after his arrest.

US President Donald Trump said at the time: “With a high degree of certainty, we have him,” adding, “I hope he gets the death penalty.”

Charlie Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, has called for full transparency. “We deserve to have cameras in there,” she has said and urged the court not to restrict coverage.

Robinson’s defence team has also raised concerns about digitally altered images that have circulated online, falsely showing him crying or having an emotional outburst in court, reports the Guardian.