Sinclair Moves Ahead of ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

On Monday, Sinclair Broadcast Group revealed it would be taking the lead over ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” starting Tuesday night. This decision comes as discussions are ongoing with ABC regarding its affiliate stations.

Sinclair, which operates 30 ABC affiliates, previously collaborated with Nexstar—another owner of ABC affiliates—to shift Kimmel’s show after it faced backlash for controversial remarks about an assassination attempt linked to Charlie Kirk.

Sinclair’s Vice-President Jason Smith described Kimmel’s remarks as “inappropriate and deeply insensitive” during a critical moment for the country. He noted that Sinclair would not reinstate “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” until they are assured that proper measures will be taken to uphold broadcasting standards. Moreover, Sinclair has requested that Kimmel apologize to the Kirk family and make personal donations to them and Turning Point USA.

The late-night show was completely suspended last Wednesday after Kimmel’s comments sparked outrage and prompted veiled threats from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Reports indicate that Disney chose to pause the show following the reactions from Sinclair and Nexstar. Kimmel, meanwhile, suggested that he would not apologize.

On Monday, Disney took a different stance, announcing that Kimmel’s show would be resuming. The company explained that the previous decision to pause was meant to alleviate potential tension given the sensitivities surrounding the comments made.