Sinclair Broadcasting has criticized the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel from ABC, arguing that it’s insufficient until he personally apologizes to Charlie Kirk’s family and contributes to his political organization. Kimmel’s comments about Kirk’s assassination were labeled as “inappropriate and deeply insensitive” by Sinclair, which operates numerous ABC Local TV affiliates across the U.S.
The company plans to withhold Kimmel’s show until a formal dialogue occurs with ABC regarding professionalism and accountability. Sinclair’s Vice President, Jason Smith, emphasized the broadcaster’s duty to foster respectful and constructive dialogue within the community.
Smith commended FCC Chairman Brendan Kerr for suggesting that action be taken against Disney due to Kimmel’s remarks. He noted that this incident highlights the necessity for the FCC to impose regulations on powerful national networks through local broadcasters.
Following Kimmel’s controversial comments about Kirk’s murder, which he referred to as “Magagang,” ABC announced an indefinite suspension of his show. Prosecutors later identified the alleged shooter as 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, who may have had personal and political motives.
In tribute to Kirk, Sinclair will air a special broadcast during Kimmel’s regular time slot. The show is available to Sinclair-owned stations and other ABC affiliates. The network reiterated its commitment not to resume airing Kimmel’s program until satisfactory conditions are met, including meaningful donations to Kirk’s family and his organization, Turning Point USA.
Kerr recently criticized Kimmel’s statements, urging affiliates to rethink broadcasting his program. He argued that Disney needs to implement changes but stressed the responsibility of local stations to decline content they believe does not serve their communities.
The reaction to the situation has gained momentum, with Nexstar Media Group, another major broadcaster, also removing Kimmel’s show from its channels. Nexstar reached an agreement to purchase Tegna for $6.2 billion recently.
This merger is pending approval from the FCC and the Trump administration, with expectations for finalization by mid-next year. Meanwhile, Disney is seeking governmental approval regarding a lucrative deal with the NFL concerning media rights.
President Trump reacted positively to Kimmel’s suspension, suggesting it was good news for the country. Reports indicate that Kimmel’s staff was taken by surprise, and some spectators gathered outside the theater, expressing support for the decision.
However, Hollywood unions have warned of potential negative repercussions. SAG-AFTRA described the incident as a risky precedent when government officials pressure media outlets to silence opposing viewpoints, while the American Writers Guild decried the suspension as an attack on creative freedom.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized the move as “outrageous,” arguing that a comedian shouldn’t be silenced because politicians are uncomfortable with their jokes. As for ABC and Kimmel, there has been no official announcement regarding the show’s future.
