Sinclair Will Preempt Jimmy Kimmel's Show When It Returns to ABC
4 hours ago
- #Broadcasting
- #Media Controversy
- #Jimmy Kimmel
- Sinclair Broadcast Group will preempt 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' on its ABC affiliates starting Tuesday, replacing it with news programming.
- Sinclair owns or controls 39 ABC-affiliated stations, including WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C., significantly impacting ABC's broadcast distribution.
- Jimmy Kimmel faced backlash for comments linking a suspect to MAGA, leading to calls for his apology and suspension by affiliates.
- Nexstar also pulled 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' from its ABC stations, with both Sinclair and Nexstar representing about one-quarter of ABC's household reach.
- Sinclair demanded a formal apology from Kimmel to the Kirk family and a donation to Turning Point USA before considering lifting the suspension.
- Sinclair initially planned a Charlie Kirk tribute special but aired ABC's rerun of 'Celebrity Family Feud' instead.
- Nexstar is monitoring the situation and has not yet decided whether to air Kimmel's show again.
- Both Sinclair and Nexstar have major transactions pending with the FCC, which could be affected by ownership rule changes.
- Critics argue Sinclair's editorial practices and influence over local news undermine public trust and interest in broadcasting.