Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates 30 ABC affiliates across the U.S., has announced it will air a special tribute to conservative activist Charlie Kirk during the Friday night timeslot previously held by Jimmy Kimmel Live! The move comes after ABC suspended Kimmel’s late-night show indefinitely following his controversial comments about Kirk’s assassination.
What Happened with Kimmel
On September 15, during his monologue, Jimmy Kimmel suggested that the suspect in Charlie Kirk’s killing, Tyler Robinson, might have been a pro-Trump Republican, criticizing conservative reactions to the tragedy. Investigations, however, revealed Robinson held leftist views, sparking major backlash from conservative media and broadcasters. In response, several ABC affiliates, including those owned by Nexstar Media Group, announced they would stop airing Kimmel’s show. Shortly after, ABC confirmed the indefinite suspension.
Sinclair Speaks Out
Sinclair Broadcast Group expressed strong disapproval of Kimmel’s remarks, calling them "inappropriate and deeply insensitive." The company made it clear that it will not return Jimmy Kimmel Live! to its airwaves until it is confident the network has taken the necessary steps to uphold broadcast standards.
Sinclair also urged Kimmel to issue a direct apology to Kirk’s family and to make a meaningful personal donation to both the family and Turning Point USA, the organization Kirk founded.
National Debate Sparks
The suspension has sparked a heated debate over free speech and media accountability. Some officials, including FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, supported the suspension, arguing that Kimmel’s comments may not have served the public interest. Others say the move risks government overreach and threatens First Amendment protections.
As the situation unfolds, media analysts and political commentators are closely watching, highlighting broader questions about the influence of political pressure on national broadcasting content.