Major ABC Affiliates End Jimmy Kimmel Blackout After Controversial Suspension

ABC has reinstated Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show after suspending it due to controversial comments he made regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The suspension followed Kimmel's remarks accusing "MAGA land" of exploiting Kirk's murder and labeling the killer as part of the MAGA group. Major ABC affiliates owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar initially refused to air the show upon its return, demanding conditions such as an apology and donations to Kirk's family and Turning Point USA, but later reversed their stance without editorial concessions. Nexstar cited "constructive" discussions with Disney and emphasized their commitment to fact-based and community-sensitive programming. Sinclair highlighted its responsibility to provide accurate and engaging content while respecting local community interests. The reinstatement ended a brief blackout of the program across significant markets controlled by these station groups, reflecting ongoing tensions between network content and local broadcaster standards.