Sinclair Broadcast Group has confirmed it will not broadcast Jimmy Kimmel Live! on its ABC-affiliated stations when the show returns, despite Disney-owned ABC’s decision to reinstate the program. The company cited unresolved concerns about the content and tone of Kimmel’s remarks regarding Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
Sinclair, which operates 31 ABC stations across U.S. markets including Washington, D.C., Seattle, and St. Louis, stated it will replace Jimmy Kimmel Live! with news programming during Tuesday night’s broadcast. The broadcaster emphasized ongoing discussions with ABC to address “professionalism and accountability” but reiterated its stance that Kimmel must meet specific conditions before returning.
A Sinclair statement demanded Kimmel issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and make a “meaningful personal donation” to Charlie Kirk’s family and Turning Point USA, a conservative organization founded by Kirk. The company criticized Kimmel’s comments as “inappropriate and deeply insensitive,” highlighting its commitment to fostering “respectful, constructive dialogue.”
Sinclair Vice Chairman Jason Smith said the broadcaster believes it has a responsibility to avoid content that undermines public trust during critical national moments. The decision aligns with Sinclair’s prior rejection of Kimmel’s show, which it suspended after his remarks sparked backlash.
The company urged Nexstar Media Group, which owns additional ABC affiliates, to adopt a similar approach, calling on the public to contact both companies to maintain pressure.