Many local television stations across the United States have announced they will not broadcast “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” episodes. This decision comes despite ABC, the show’s parent network owned by Disney, lifting the suspension for host Jimmy Kimmel. The suspension was imposed after Kimmel made comments perceived as insensitive regarding the killing of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk.
Nexstar and Sinclair, two major broadcasting groups that operate a significant number of ABC-affiliated stations, have stated that they will continue to air alternative programming instead of Kimmel’s show on Tuesday. A spokesperson for Sinclair cited the remarks as “inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country.” Similarly, Nexstar affirmed its decision, pending assurances that all parties involved are committed to fostering respectful dialogue.
The comedian’s show was previously removed from the airwaves following backlash to his monologue about the shooting of Kirk. Disney’s decision to reinstate the show came after “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel, acknowledging that some comments were “ill-timed and thus insensitive.” However, this decision has not appeased all affiliated stations, with Nexstar and Sinclair controlling a substantial portion of ABC’s network affiliates.
Kimmel’s temporary suspension had sparked a wider national debate about free speech and the role of broadcast regulators, particularly after US President Donald Trump suggested that networks should lose their licenses for negative coverage of the White House. The situation also comes amidst heightened tensions, including a recent incident where a man fired a gun into an ABC news affiliate lobby in Sacramento, California, leaving a note that investigators believe may have referred to Trump administration officials.