Jimmy Kimmel Decries Silencing of Comedians as Show Returns After Suspension
NEW YORK – Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show returned to ABC on Tuesday following a brief suspension sparked by controversial remarks, but faced continued pre-emption by major affiliate networks citing a demand for an apology. The controversy has ignited a debate over the boundaries of comedic expression and corporate influence on broadcast content.
Kimmel’s show was initially pulled from ABC’s schedule after the host’s monologue drew criticism for comments perceived as insensitive following the death of conservative commentator Bill Kirk. ABC stated the decision to pre-empt the show was made “to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country,” adding that the comments were “ill-timed and thus insensitive.” After “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel,ABC announced the show’s return on Tuesday.
However,the show did not air on stations owned by Sinclair Broadcast group,the nation’s largest ABC affiliate owner,nor on Nexstar stations in 22 states. Sinclair demanded Kimmel apologize to Kirk’s family and donate to Turning Point USA, a conservative activist group, before allowing the show to air. “Beginning Tuesday night, Sinclair will be preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live! across our ABC affiliate stations and replacing it with news programming,” the company saeid. Nexstar similarly stated it would continue pre-empting the show pending “assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue.”
The continued pre-emption meant Jimmy Kimmel Live! did not reach viewers on nearly a quarter of ABC affiliate stations, though the show remains available online via Hulu and disney+.
The situation has drawn widespread attention, with hundreds of Hollywood stars signing an open letter condemning Kimmel’s suspension, as reported by The Guardian. Kimmel himself has not yet publicly addressed the pre-emption by Sinclair and Nexstar,but the incident raises broader questions about the influence of conservative media groups and the potential for censorship of comedic voices.
