Sinclair ABC Stations Boycott Jimmy Kimmel Despite Network Return
Sinclair Broadcast Group has confirmed that its ABC affiliates will not air Jimmy Kimmel Live! following the show’s reinstatement by Disney. The decision has sparked debate over local broadcasters’ authority to preempt national network programming.
Sinclair Broadcast Group ABC affiliates Stand Firm
Sinclair, which owns or manages dozens of Sinclair ABC stations across the U.S., stated it would replace Kimmel’s show with news programming. The broadcaster is demanding a public apology and charitable donation from Kimmel before allowing his return.
Affected markets include:
| Region | Stations Impacted |
|---|---|
| Washington, D.C. | WJLA-TV (ABC 7) |
| Northern California | KRCR-TV (Redding/Chico), KAEF-TV (Eureka) |
| Midwest & South | Stations in St. Louis, Tulsa, and more |
Sinclair Preempt Jimmy Kimmel and Industry Fallout
The controversy began after Kimmel’s remarks about activist Charlie Kirk led ABC to briefly suspend the program. While Disney lifted the suspension, Sinclair and Nexstar have continued the boycott. Nexstar Media Group, another large affiliate operator, also confirmed its Nexstar ABC affiliates would preempt the show.
Sinclair ABC Station List and Viewer Impact
With both companies combined, more than a quarter of ABC’s affiliate reach is affected. Viewers in these regions now face a “Kimmel blackout,” with local news or alternative programming airing instead of the late-night talk show.
ABC Affiliate Controversies and Political Response
The dispute has triggered wider discussions about editorial control. FCC Chair Brendan Carr backed the affiliates’ decisions, while Senator Elizabeth Warren criticized the move as censorship. The standoff highlights ongoing ABC affiliate controversies and raises questions about the balance of power between local broadcasters and national networks.
