Local TV Stations Boycott Kimmel's Return After Insensitive Remarks

Tue Oct 21 2025 08:32:48 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Following ABC's decision to lift Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, local TV stations from Nexstar and Sinclair are choosing not to air the late-night show due to controversial comments made by the host regarding the killing of activist Charlie Kirk.

Local TV stations affiliated with ABC, particularly Nexstar and Sinclair, have announced they will not air Jimmy Kimmel Live! after the show returns following a suspension. The decision stems from Kimmel's controversial remarks about the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which were deemed inappropriate and insensitive. This controversy has sparked conversations around censorship and freedom of speech among public figures and fans alike.

Local TV stations say they will not air Jimmy Kimmel Live! despite Disney-owned ABC bringing back the comedian's late-night show - a week after he was suspended for comments about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

Nexstar and Sinclair, which together run dozens of stations affiliated to ABC, said they would continue to replace the show with regular programming on Tuesday.

Mr Kimmel's remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country, Sinclair's vice-chairman Jason Smith said.

The liberal comedian's show was yanked off air last week after his monologue about the shooting of Kirk caused uproar.

Nexstar, one of the largest owners of TV stations in the US, said in a statement, We made a decision last week to preempt 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' following what ABC referred to as Mr Kimmel's 'ill-timed and insensitive' comments at a critical time in our national discourse. We stand by that decision pending assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in the markets we serve.

Earlier on Monday, Sinclair stated it would be preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live! across our ABC affiliate stations and replacing it with news programming. The station commented that discussions with ABC are ongoing as they evaluate the show's potential return.

Kimmel's comments included internet disputes over the characterization of the suspect in the shooting and remarks about Trump's reactions, which some found deeply offensive. Disney announced on Monday that the show would return, having had discussions with Kimmel aimed at ensuring future sensitivity.

The incident raised broader questions about censorship and freedom of speech, with many public figures supporting Kimmel's right to express his opinions. The situation continues to unfold amidst increasing debates over media handling of controversial content.