Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late-night television faces significant resistance as two of ABC’s largest affiliate owners, Sinclair and Nexstar, confirm they will not broadcast his show. The decision follows backlash over Kimmel’s remarks about Charlie Kirk, a conservative commentator, which affiliates described as “ill-timed and insensitive.”
Sinclair Broadcast Group, operator of 41 ABC-affiliated stations, announced it will preempt “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on Tuesday night, replacing the program with news content. The company cited ongoing discussions with ABC but emphasized its stance against airing the show amid concerns over “toxic brand” messaging. Nexstar Media Group, which oversees 32 ABC affiliates, made a similar announcement, citing Kimmel’s false claim that Kirk was killed by a MAGA supporter.
The preempted stations span key markets, including Washington, D.C., Seattle, St. Louis, Portland, Ore., Rochester, N.Y., Columbus, Ohio, Birmingham, Ala., and Little Rock-Pine Bluff, Ark. Additional affected areas include Syracuse, Salt Lake City, Hartford, and Albany. Collectively, the decision impacts 73 stations, some serving multiple cities.
ABC has stated the show will remain available through Disney-owned streaming platforms, while affiliates focus on local programming. The move highlights growing tensions between national networks and regional broadcasters over content decisions.