Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group have announced that their ABC-affiliate stations will resume airing Jimmy Kimmel Live! from Friday night, ending a preemption that left around 25% of US TV viewers unable to watch the show.
The two station owners, which together own 70 ABC affiliates, had continued to preempt the late-night show even after ABC resumed production following a brief hiatus. Sinclair cited “thoughtful feedback from viewers, advertisers and community leaders” as a factor in its decision, while Nexstar noted “constructive discussions” with Disney.
The controversy began when FCC Chair Brendan Carr threatened regulatory action over Kimmel’s comments. Nexstar, seeking FCC approval for a merger with Tegna, was first to preempt the show, followed by Sinclair. ABC then paused production for nearly a week, drawing widespread criticism.
Sinclair stated its decision was independent of government influence, emphasising broadcasters’ right to exercise editorial judgment. The company proposed measures including a network-wide independent ombudsman, but ABC and Disney did not agree.
Former President Donald Trump praised ABC for initially taking Kimmel off air, but criticised the reversal. Nexstar said it would continue evaluating the show’s status, while Sinclair confirmed the resumption of broadcasts.
