Matthew Wilson
Jimmy Kimmel may be making his return, but not everyone is going to be able to watch him. After ABC indefinitely removed Kimmel last week, several TV affiliates are refusing to air his return on Tuesday.
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What happened: These aren’t small affiliates either. Nexstar and Sinclair, two of the largest owners of TV affiliates, announced they wouldn’t air Jimmy Kimmel Live! on their stations. The map below shows the shocking number of places that won’t air Kimmel, and keep in mind this is just for Sinclair.
Sinclair runs 38 ABC stations. Meanwhile, Nexstar operates 33 ABC stations itself.
Jimmy Kimmel Returns
Statements from affiliates: In a statement, Sinclair Vice Chairman Jason Smith explained, “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.”
- They called on Kimmel to make an apology for comments made about Charlie Kirk to his family and to donate to Turning Point USA.
- Meanwhile, Nexstar announced the same.
- “We stand by that decision pending assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in the markets we serve,” they said. “In the meantime, we note that ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ will be available nationwide on multiple Disney-owned streaming products, while our stations will focus on continuing to produce local news and other programming relevant to their respective markets.”
Disney speaks: Disney also released a statement about Jimmy Kimmel, announcing the show’s return.
In a statement per The Blast, the company explained, “Last Wednesday, we made the decision to suspend production on the show to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country. We have spent the last days having thoughtful conversations with Jimmy, and after those conversations, we reached the decision to return the show on Tuesday.”
The news angered conservatives. Megyn Kelly wrote, “Must be nice to be a leftist. ‘Cancellation’ lasts 5 nights and you’re right back under klieg lights. On the right you’re underground.”
