Additional Coverage:
- Sinclair in major U-turn on Jimmy Kimmel as they brand their own decision-making ‘inconsistent’ (themirror.com)
Sinclair Reverses Course, Reinstates Jimmy Kimmel on ABC Affiliates
Sinclair Broadcast Group has announced the return of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” to its 38 ABC affiliate stations, marking a significant reversal after the late-night host’s suspension following comments made regarding the murder of activist Charlie Kirk. The program’s broadcast resumed earlier this week.
In a statement addressing the decision, Sinclair outlined its objectives and the factors contributing to the reinstatement. “Our objective throughout this process has been to ensure that programming remains accurate and engaging for the widest possible audience,” the company stated. They emphasized their responsibility as local broadcasters to serve community interests while upholding obligations to national network programming.
Sinclair reported receiving “thoughtful feedback from viewers, advertisers, and community leaders representing a wide range of perspectives” over the past week. The company also cited recent “troubling acts of violence, including the despicable incident of a shooting at an ABC affiliate station in Sacramento,” as events underscoring the importance of responsible broadcasting and respectful dialogue.
The broadcast group confirmed it had engaged in “ongoing and constructive discussions with ABC,” proposing measures aimed at strengthening accountability, viewer feedback, and community dialogue, including the suggestion of a network-wide independent ombudsman. While ABC and Disney have not adopted these proposals, Sinclair stated it respects their right to make such decisions under their affiliate agreements, adding that these measures could “strengthen trust and accountability.”
Sinclair reiterated that its initial decision to preempt the program was “independent of any government interaction or influence,” asserting that “free speech provides broadcasters with the right to exercise judgment as to the content on their local stations.” The company concluded its statement by affirming its commitment to serving communities with programming that reflects local priorities, earns trust, and promotes constructive dialogue.
Upon his highly anticipated return episode on Tuesday, September 22, Jimmy Kimmel visibly teared up as he addressed the controversial statements from his September 15 broadcast concerning Charlie Kirk’s death.
“Look, I never imagined I would be in a situation like this,” Kimmel said. He reflected on lessons learned from figures like Lenny Bruce, George Carlin, and Howard Stern, stating, “a government threat to silence a comedian the President doesn’t like is anti American.”
He expressed gratitude for “solidarity on that from the Right and Left and from those in the middle — like Joe Rogan.” Kimmel suggested a potential “silver lining” from the situation could be finding common ground, urging audiences to “stop letting these politicians tell us what they want and tell them what we want.”