Background and Suspension
A significant development unfolded in the world of late-night television as Disney announced the return of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' to ABC, following a brief suspension. The show was pulled off the air last week after its host, Jimmy Kimmel, made comments during an opening monologue that were deemed 'ill-timed and insensitive' by ABC. Kimmel's remarks were in response to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, with Kimmel accusing conservatives of trying to score 'political points' off the incident.
Suspension and Reactions
The suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' was met with varied reactions from different groups. Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, two of the largest owners of ABC affiliates, announced that they would preempt the show. Sinclair owns nearly 40 ABC affiliates across the country, while Nexstar is the largest provider of local news in the United States.
Preemption by Major Broadcasters
Despite Disney's decision to reinstate 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', major broadcasters have chosen not to air the show. Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcasting Group announced that their ABC affiliate stations would not carry the program. Instead, they will focus on producing local news and other programming relevant to their respective markets.
Nexstar's Decision
Nexstar made a decision last week to preempt 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' following what ABC referred to as Kimmel's 'ill-timed and insensitive' comments. The company stated that they stand by their decision, pending assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in the markets they serve.
Sinclair's Decision
Sinclair Broadcasting Group also doubled down on their decision not to air 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'. They released a statement indicating that beginning Tuesday night, Sinclair will be preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live! across their ABC affiliate stations and replacing it with news programming. Discussions with ABC are ongoing as they evaluate the show's potential return.
Implications and Context
The preemption of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' by major broadcasters has significant implications for the show's reach and audience. With over 25% of ABC affiliates nationwide not airing the program, Kimmel's return to the airwaves will be limited for many viewers.
FCC Involvement
The controversy surrounding Kimmel's comments and the subsequent suspension of his show drew attention from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). FCC Chairman Brendan Carr suggested that Kimmel's remarks were part of a 'concerted effort to lie to the American people' and hinted at potential regulatory action.
Quotes from Key Figures
Conclusion
The decision by major broadcasters to preempt 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' despite Disney lifting the suspension has raised questions about the future of the show and its relationship with its affiliates. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the show's reach and audience.
The preemption by Nexstar and Sinclair highlights the complex dynamics between networks, affiliates, and content creators in the television industry.