The recent suspension of Jimmy Kimmel’s show highlighted a power struggle between ABC and large broadcast groups, Nexstar and Sinclair, who own a significant number of ABC affiliates. Despite pressure from the FCC, the broadcast groups’ initial decision to remove Kimmel from their stations was ultimately unsuccessful. The economics of the situation favored ABC, as the broadcast groups risked losing viewers and revenue by preempting a popular program like Kimmel. Ultimately, the broadcast groups relented, recognizing that the long-term costs of the standoff outweighed the benefits, and the show was put back on air.
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Sinclair Broadcast Group has decided to reinstate Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show on its ABC affiliate stations after days of blackout, citing a commitment to providing engaging programming for the widest possible audience. The decision follows Kimmel’s controversial remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The company, known for its conservative political content, had initially called for Kimmel to apologize and donate to Turning Point USA, leading to the preemption of the show in numerous cities. Despite ongoing discussions with ABC regarding accountability, feedback, and dialogue, Sinclair maintains its decision was independent, emphasizing its right to exercise editorial judgment and rejecting any government influence.
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Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair have decided not to air the return of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” after Disney announced its reinstatement following controversial comments made by host Jimmy Kimmel. Both companies, which own numerous broadcast TV stations, cited Kimmel’s remarks linking a suspect to President Trump’s MAGA movement as the reason for preempting the show. While the show will be available on Disney-owned streaming platforms, Nexstar and Sinclair will focus on local news and programming. Disney had previously paused the show, but decided to bring it back, a decision communicated to Kimmel by Disney CEO Bob Iger and Dana Walden.
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Sinclair, a media conglomerate, will replace “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on its ABC affiliate stations with a Charlie Kirk tribute special and is offering it to all other ABC stations due to Kimmel’s recent comments. The company is also demanding Kimmel apologize to Kirk’s family and donate to Turning Point USA. This move follows Sinclair and Nexstar Media Group pulling the show from their ABC stations, leading to ABC suspending production. Sinclair emphasized a commitment to professionalism and accountability and will not air the show until those standards are met, and is also conducting a strategic review of its broadcast business, subject to FCC review for any deals.
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John Q. Hosedrinker