Local TV Stations Omit Jimmy Kimmel's Show Amid Controversy Over Inflammatory Remarks

Fri Sep 26 2025 14:26:36 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Despite ABC lifting Jimmy Kimmel's suspension, local TV stations are opting not to air 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' due to comments deemed insensitive. This decision stems from broader implications surrounding media censorship and freedom of speech.

Local TV affiliates, including Nexstar and Sinclair, have decided not to air 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' following the comedian's recent suspension over remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk's death. The move comes amid ongoing discussions regarding media responsibility and political commentary in a polarized environment. While ABC has reinstated Kimmel's show, the reaction from local stations reflects a significant divide in the media landscape and raises questions about censorship and dialogue in the current socio-political climate.

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 with ABC, announced 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, stated Sinclair's vice-chairman Jason Smith.

The liberal comedian's show was pulled from air last week following an uproar after his monologue related to Kirk's shooting.

Nextstar, one of the largest owners of TV stations in the US, clarified its decision: 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.

Sinclair also stated it would be replacing Kimmel's show with news programming while evaluating the potential for his return.

The controversy stemmed from Kimmel's monologue on September 15, where he characterized political maneuvers surrounding Kirk’s death as a desperate attempt by Trump and allies to deflect their responsibility. Kimmel's remarks sparked wider discussions on media responsibilities and the line between satire and insensitivity.

In response to the controversy, Disney announced that Kimmel's show would return after discussions addressing the timing and sensitivity of his comments. This decision, while reinstating Kimmel, has ignited debates over freedom of speech, with critics labeling the initial suspension as censorship influenced by political pressures from the Trump administration.

In a broader cultural context, many celebrities voiced their support for Kimmel, signaling a significant divide in public opinion regarding the role of media and humor in political discourse.