TV Stations Refuse to Air Jimmy Kimmel Show After Suspension Lifted
Several local TV stations are refusing to air Jimmy Kimmel Live! despite Disney-owned ABC's decision to reinstate the comedian's show after a week-long suspension. The suspension stemmed from comments Kimmel made regarding the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, deemed "insensitive" by station groups.
Nexstar and Sinclair Stand Firm
Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, which collectively operate dozens of ABC-affiliated stations, have announced they will continue to preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live!, replacing it with alternative programming. Sinclair's vice-chairman, Jason Smith, stated that Mr. Kimmel's remarks were "inappropriate and deeply insensitive." Nexstar echoed this sentiment, indicating they would maintain their decision "pending assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue." Together, Nexstar and Sinclair control over 20% of ABC's affiliated television stations, according to the New York Times.
Nexstar's statement emphasized that Jimmy Kimmel Live! "will be available nationwide on multiple Disney-owned streaming products," offering an alternative viewing option. This decision highlights a growing tension between national networks and local affiliates, particularly regarding content deemed controversial or insensitive.
The Controversy and Fallout
The controversy arose from a monologue on September 15 where Kimmel suggested that President Trump and his allies were attempting to exploit Kirk's death for political gain. He said the “MAGA gang (is) desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.” This prompted criticism from various groups, including Brendan Carr, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), who accused Kimmel of misleading the public.
Following the initial suspension, numerous figures in the entertainment industry, including Tom Hanks, Barbra Streisand, and Jennifer Aniston, signed an open letter supporting Kimmel and defending freedom of speech. Some consumers also responded by canceling subscriptions to Disney's streaming services. In contrast, figures associated with Turning Point USA, the organization founded by Charlie Kirk, applauded Sinclair's decision to continue blocking Kimmel's show, demanding accountability from the comedian.
Business and Regulatory Implications
The decision by Nexstar and Sinclair carries broader implications. Nexstar is currently seeking FCC approval for a $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna Inc., raising questions about potential regulatory influence on content decisions. Similarly, Sinclair has also petitioned the FCC to relax its rules limiting broadcaster ownership of stations. Disney also awaits the Trump Administration's approval for ESPN's acquisition of the NFL Network.
Reactions and Future Outlook
The situation has ignited a debate about censorship, free speech, and the role of government regulation in media. FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez expressed her support for Disney's decision to reinstate Kimmel, while others, such as Senator Ted Cruz, criticized FCC Chairman Carr for acting like a "mafioso." Kimmel is expected to address the controversy on his show Tuesday night, although reports suggest he will not offer an apology.
Tuesday’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! is scheduled to feature Glen Powell and musical guest Yungblud, according to ABC. It remains to be seen how the comedian will address the controversy and whether Nexstar and Sinclair will eventually resume airing the program.
