Jimmy Kimmel’s show returns to Sinclair’s ABC-affiliated stations, ending a previous blackout.
Sinclair Broadcast Group has decided to reinstate Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show on its ABC affiliate stations, effectively ending a broadcast blackout that affected numerous cities across the United States. This decision comes after a span of days during which the program was withheld due to controversial remarks made by Kimmel following the tragic death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
In an official statement released on Friday, Sinclair emphasized its commitment to providing programming that is both accurate and engaging for diverse audiences. The Maryland-based media conglomerate operates 38 ABC affiliates and highlighted its dual responsibility of honoring the needs of local communities while also fulfilling its obligations to national programming.
The suspension of Kimmel’s show was initiated by Disney-owned ABC on September 17, amid threats of potential repercussions stemming from a statement made by the Trump-appointed Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Following this, Nexstar, another major affiliate group, also preemptively canceled episodes of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” Further complicating matters, Sinclair had publicly condemned Kimmel’s remarks.
Sinclair’s initial stance prompted calls for Kimmel to apologize to Kirk’s family and urged him to contribute a substantial personal donation to Turning Point USA, the nonprofit organization founded by Kirk. Even after ABC reinstated Kimmel’s program on September 19, both Sinclair and Nexstar continued to block broadcasts of the show.
Sinclair’s decision to resume airing Kimmel’s show was influenced by feedback from viewers, advertisers, and community leaders, who expressed diverse perspectives on the unfolding situation. The media company also referenced an increase in concerning acts of violence, alluding to a recent shooting incident at a Sacramento station, as a catalyst for its broadcasting philosophy and the critical nature of responsible media.
Notably, the blackout had significant repercussions, leaving viewers in major markets including Washington, D.C., and Seattle deprived of the late-night program. This situation intensified discussions surrounding the First Amendment and how political influence can permeate the media landscape. Critics voiced concerns over potential censorship linked to entrepreneurial decisions made by media outlets in response to political pressures.
The viewership impact was substantial, with the boycott affecting approximately 1.1 million households across Pennsylvania, including residents in markets such as Altoona, Johnstown, State College, Harrisburg, and Erie. Kimmel’s remarks had been aimed at criticizing the response from Trump and his supporters to Kirk’s death, which led to backlash from Kirk’s supporters and government officials, including FCC Chairman Brendan Carr.
Carr accused Kimmel of misleading the public and praised Sinclair and Nexstar for their prior decisions to withhold the show. Despite the various pressures from the political climate, Sinclair articulated that its actions were made independently, asserting the right of local broadcasters to make decisions about their content.
As the situation develops, Sinclair indicated ongoing constructive discussions with ABC to enhance accountability and dialogue, although proposals for an ombudsman and other measures have yet to be adopted. Representatives from ABC did not provide commentary regarding Sinclair’s announcement on Friday.
This incident underscores the complex interplay between media, politics, and public sentiment, illuminating the importance of ethical broadcasting practices amid a tumultuous socio-political landscape.
(Media News Source)
