Sinclair Broadcast Group Maintains Preemption of Jimmy Kimmel Live! Across 38 ABC Stations

Sinclair Broadcast Group has announced it will continue to preempt "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on its 38 ABC affiliate stations, despite ABC's decision to reinstate the late-night program. This move follows controversial remarks made by Jimmy Kimmel regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the network and its largest affiliate group, prompting media observers like Hadas Gold to comment on the predictability of Sinclair's actions given its history.

Sinclair Vice Chairman Jason Smith stated that Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were "inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country." The company demands a direct apology from Kimmel to the Kirk family and a "meaningful personal donation" to the Kirk Family and Turning Point USA. Sinclair has indicated it will not lift the preemption until "appropriate steps have been taken to uphold the standards expected of a national broadcast platform."

Kimmel's comments, made during a monologue, linked the alleged killer of Charlie Kirk to the "MAGA gang," leading to significant backlash. ABC initially suspended production of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" but later announced its return, citing a need to avoid "further inflaming a tense situation." However, Sinclair remains firm in its decision, opting to air news programming in the show's scheduled timeslot.

This stance aligns with Sinclair's well-documented history of conservative-leaning news content and past controversies, including requiring local anchors to read mandatory scripts. The company, which owns or operates 178 television stations nationwide, has often been scrutinized for its political influence and its use of local news channels to promote specific viewpoints. Critics have noted that Sinclair's approach can blur the lines between local news and partisan commentary.

The preemption by Sinclair, the largest owner of ABC affiliates, significantly impacts the show's reach, affecting a substantial portion of ABC's household viewership. Nexstar Media Group, another major ABC affiliate owner, had also initially preempted the show. The ongoing dispute underscores the complex relationship between national networks and their local broadcast partners, particularly when political and editorial differences arise.