Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group announced the return of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to their ABC affiliate stations across the U.S., effective Friday. The move comes shortly after Disney’s ABC network reinstated the late-night show following a nearly week-long suspension.
The suspension had followed controversial remarks made by Kimmel regarding the alleged murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and commentary on the MAGA movement, prompting both Sinclair and Nexstar to preempt the program in certain local markets.
Sinclair, which owns approximately 40 ABC affiliates including stations in Washington, D.C., emphasized its commitment to responsible broadcasting and community engagement. “Our objective has been to ensure programming remains accurate and engaging for the widest possible audience,” the company said in a statement. “We take seriously our responsibility to serve community interests while honoring obligations to air national network programming.”
Nexstar, owner of about 30 ABC affiliates in markets such as Salt Lake City and New Orleans, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the company’s focus on First Amendment protections and fact-based, unbiased programming. “Our commitment to local communities guides our decisions, independent of external influence from government agencies or individuals,” Nexstar said.
The temporary preemptions had resulted in Jimmy Kimmel Live! being unavailable in roughly 20% of U.S. markets, including Washington, D.C. Kimmel addressed the situation during his return show, noting, “After almost 23 years on the air, we’re suddenly not being broadcast in 20% of the country, which is not a situation we relish.”
Sinclair also indicated that it has proposed measures to enhance accountability, viewer feedback, and community dialogue at ABC and its affiliates, though Disney has not yet adopted these initiatives. Nexstar confirmed ongoing constructive discussions with Disney executives regarding these concerns.
The suspension and subsequent reinstatement of Kimmel’s show followed remarks by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr about potential licensing risks for ABC affiliates, sparking broader conversations on media independence, government influence, and First Amendment protections. Both Sinclair and Nexstar firmly denied any government influence in their programming decisions.
