Media giant Sinclair is shaking up Friday nights on its ABC affiliate stations, pulling “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” from the schedule and replacing it with a tribute special honoring conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. The company says it will also make the special available to other ABC affiliates nationwide.
On top of that, Sinclair is insisting that Kimmel issue a public apology to Kirk’s family and contribute “a meaningful personal donation” both to them and to Turning Point USA, the youth-focused conservative group Kirk founded. The broadcaster, one of the country’s largest station owners, has long been known for its right-leaning stance.
The move follows a wave of backlash over Kimmel’s recent remarks about Kirk’s killing. Sinclair, along with Nexstar Media Group — another major ABC affiliate operator — dropped the late-night show from their ABC stations. Soon after, ABC itself halted production of the program indefinitely.
“Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country,” said Sinclair vice chairman Jason Smith. “Broadcasters have a responsibility to educate and encourage respectful, constructive dialogue in our communities.
We welcome Chairman Carr’s comments today and believe this moment underscores the urgent need for the FCC to act on the outsized control that national networks hold over local broadcasters.”
Sinclair added that it has no plans to bring “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” back until ABC engages in “formal discussions” about the network’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.
Even if ABC resumes production, Sinclair says the show will stay off its stations unless it is satisfied that real steps have been taken to uphold broadcast standards.
The announcement also comes as Sinclair continues a “comprehensive strategic review” of its broadcast operations, which could involve acquisitions, sales, or other changes. Any future transfer of its broadcast licenses would require approval by the FCC.
