Sinclair Broadcast Group Suspends “Kimmel” Slot, Demands Apology and FCC Action

Sinclair Broadcast Group indefinitely preempted Jimmy Kimmel Live! on its ABC affiliates after the host’s remarks on Charlie Kirk’s death, calling on ABC and the FCC for further action. The company will air a Charlie Kirk tribute this Friday in the vacated timeslot.

Nut Graf: Sinclair, the nation’s largest ABC affiliate group, deemed Jimmy Kimmel’s comments “inappropriate and deeply insensitive” amid heightened political tensions. The move underscores Sinclair’s push for stricter broadcast standards and potential regulatory changes to curb network influence over local stations.

Background

Sinclair’s vice chairman, Jason Smith, criticized Kimmel’s Mon. monologue about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, asserting broadcasters must foster respectful dialogue. Shortly after, Sinclair and Nexstar both halted the late-night show on their ABC stations, and ABC suspended production indefinitely.

Details

Tribute Programming

• Sinclair’s ABC stations will air a special in remembrance of Charlie Kirk during the Jimmy Kimmel Live! timeslot this Friday.
• The tribute will also be available to all ABC affiliates nationwide over the weekend.

Demands and Regulatory Push

• Sinclair requires Kimmel to issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and make a “meaningful personal donation” to both the family and Turning Point USA.
• The company called on the FCC to implement immediate regulatory measures addressing network control over local broadcasters.
• FCC Chairman Brendan Carr warned networks to “change conduct … or there’s going to be additional work for the FCC ahead.”

Next Steps

Sinclair will maintain the suspension until formal discussions with ABC confirm a renewed commitment to “professionalism and accountability.” The decision sets a precedent for affiliate-level action and adds momentum to ongoing debates over media consolidation and broadcast regulation.