Sinclair and Nexstar Restore Jimmy Kimmel Live! to ABC Affiliate Stations
Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group have reinstated "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on their ABC affiliate stations after a brief blackout, following viewer feedback and constructive dialogue with ABC.
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Overview
- Sinclair and Nexstar initially preempted "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on their ABC affiliate stations due to comments made by Kimmel, including criticism of Trump and the "MAGA gang" regarding Kirk's killing.
- The show's suspension on September 17 by Disney-owned ABC was reportedly influenced by threats from the Trump-appointed head of the Federal Communications Commission, leading to a blackout.
- Following thoughtful feedback from viewers, advertisers, and community leaders, Sinclair and Nexstar independently decided to reinstate the show on their local TV stations.
- Sinclair, despite not receiving concessions like an apology or donation, cited a commitment to strengthening accountability and community dialogue for the show's return.
- Kimmel's return to national airwaves on ABC stations, including those of Sinclair and Nexstar, resulted in a significant increase in viewership, attracting over 6 million viewers.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the story neutrally by presenting factual developments without overt editorial judgment. They report Nexstar and Sinclair's statements regarding the blackout's end and Kimmel's high return ratings. Expert opinions on viewer migration to digital platforms during blackouts are included as analytical context, rather than as a means to push a specific narrative.
"The decision shows the power and influence national networks and local station owners have over one another."
BBC News"The stand-down comes days after Kimmel’s first episode back on air had the highest ratings for a regularly scheduled episode in over a decade."
Fortune"The late night talk show will return to ABC stations affiliated with both Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group on Friday, Sept. 26."
NPR"Sinclair is putting Jimmy Kimmel Live! back on the air."
ARS Technica"Sinclair’s “principled stance” was destined to last for exactly as long as it didn’t actually cost them anything and likely not a second longer."
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FAQ
Sinclair and Nexstar initially preempted 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' due to comments made by Jimmy Kimmel criticizing Trump and the 'MAGA gang' following the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which led to controversy and a blackout influenced in part by threats from the Trump-appointed head of the FCC.
Following constructive dialogue with ABC, thoughtful feedback from viewers, advertisers, and community leaders, and a commitment to accountability and community dialogue, Sinclair and Nexstar independently decided to bring the show back on their ABC affiliate stations.
No, Sinclair returned the show to air without demands for an apology or donations, citing commitment to strengthened accountability measures and community engagement moving forward, though ABC has yet to adopt suggested measures such as a network-wide independent ombudsman.
The show's return on Sinclair and Nexstar ABC affiliates resulted in a significant increase in viewership, attracting over 6 million broadcast viewers, about four times larger than the show's average for the season.
The blackout was reportedly influenced by threats from the Trump-appointed head of the FCC, and there were also calls from conservative commentators for suspension of Kimmel. Democratic lawmakers pressured Sinclair and Nexstar to bring Kimmel back, threatening investigations into possible Trump administration involvement.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.