Sinclair, Nexstar Return Kimmel to ABC Affiliates

ABC/Disney suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” after Kimmel’s remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk sparked backlash, protests and calls to boycott Disney streaming services. Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, which together operate roughly 20% of ABC affiliates, initially preempted the show on many local stations, drawing pressure from lawmakers and a warning from FCC Chair Brendan Carr. Disney/ABC reinstated the program nationally after several days, but Sinclair continued its blackout while demanding an apology, donations and editorial-accountability measures such as a proposed networkwide independent ombudsman. Citing “thoughtful feedback” from viewers, advertisers and community leaders and safety concerns including a shooting at a Sacramento ABC affiliate, Sinclair reversed course and returned the show to its stations. Nexstar soon followed, emphasizing First Amendment principles, local sensibilities and that its decisions were independent of government influence. Multiple outlets reported Disney made no editorial concessions to secure the reinstatement, and the dispute highlighted tensions among networks, local broadcasters and regulators over content, free speech and potential FCC regulatory stakes.