ABC’s late-night lineup has a gaping hole this week. Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been pulled “indefinitely” after Sinclair, the nation’s largest ABC affiliate group, demanded the host make amends for remarks about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
Sinclair’s List of Demands
In a press release on Sept. 17, Sinclair said Jimmy must issue a direct apology to Kirk’s family and also make a “meaningful personal donation” to both the family and Kirk’s nonprofit, Turning Point USA. The company called his recent comments “inappropriate and deeply insensitive.”
Jason Smith, Sinclair’s vice chairman, didn’t mince words. "Mr. Kimmel's remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country, We believe broadcasters have a responsibility to educate and elevate respectful, constructive dialogue in our communities,” he said.
"We appreciate FCC Chairman [Brendan] Carr's remarks today and this incident highlights the critical need for the FCC to take immediate regulatory action to address control held over local broadcasters by the big national networks," Smith added.
Until Jimmy complies, Sinclair stations in 30 markets, including Washington D.C., Seattle, and Portland — will replace his late-night slot with a special honoring Kirk, who was fatally shot on Sept. 10.
ABC Responds
A Disney-owned ABC spokesperson confirmed the suspension, noting the decision followed Jimmy’s Sept. 15 monologue about Kirk’s killing. The comedian, known for his sharp political barbs, criticized what he called “desperate attempts” to politicize the murder.
He also later posted condolences on social media, writing, “On behalf of my family, we send love to the Kirks and to all the innocents who fall victim to senseless gun violence.”
Also read: Donald Trump says Jimmy Kimmel was fired for “Lack of Talent”, Elon Musk calls the host “Disgusting”
What’s Next?
The standoff puts Jimmy’s future with ABC affiliates in limbo. Sinclair says it won’t allow Jimmy Kimmel Live! back on air “until appropriate steps have been taken to uphold the standards expected of a national broadcast platform.”
For now, fans are left wondering if one of late night’s most enduring hosts will meet the demands — or dig in his heels.
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