Jimmy Kimmel Live! is set to return on ABC-affiliated channels owned by both Sinclair Broadcasting and Nexstar Media Group starting tonight, as announced by the companies on Friday.
Earlier in the week, both broadcasters had declined to resume broadcasting the show following Disney’s decision to lift a week-long suspension imposed over comments made by the late-night host in a monologue about the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
This move will bring back Jimmy Kimmel Live! to local TV screens on Nexstar’s ABC affiliates in 28 cities and the 38 stations where Sinclair has agreed to reinstate the show.
Sinclair stated in a press release on Friday, “Our goal throughout this process has been to ensure that programming remains both accurate and engaging for a wide audience.”
The company emphasized that its decision was not influenced by any government entity and was grounded in the principles of free speech.
In a statement, Sinclair added, “While we acknowledge that not everyone may agree with our programming choices, it is contradictory to advocate for free speech while simultaneously mandating specific content to be aired by broadcasters.”
Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night talk show has amassed millions of views on YouTube following his return after a suspension, sparking a national dialogue on freedom of speech. Award-winning journalist Segun Oduolowu discusses Kimmel’s comeback and its significance.
Shortly after, Nexstar also announced its decision, citing a firm commitment to free speech.
Nexstar’s statement read in part, “We have engaged in discussions with executives at the Walt Disney Company and appreciate their collaborative approach in addressing our concerns.”
Even before ABC’s indefinite suspension of Kimmel’s show, both Sinclair and Nexstar had preempted the show on their respective stations. Sinclair had criticized Kimmel’s remarks and stated that the show’s suspension would only be lifted after formal discussions with ABC.
Prior to the show’s suspension, FCC Chair Brendan Carr had cautioned local broadcasters airing Kimmel’s show about potential penalties or license revocations, urging them to take action.
The two station owners collectively represent about a quarter of all affiliates.
Kimmel returned to television on Tuesday night, addressing the controversy for the first time. He reiterated his support for free speech and became emotional during parts of his monologue, especially when clarifying the intent behind his comments concerning Kirk.
Kimmel stated, “It was never my intention to trivialize the tragic death of a young man. I find nothing humorous about it. I expressed condolences to his family on the day of his passing via Instagram, urging compassion, and I meant every word. I still do.”
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