We have breaking news right now. Two of the country’s biggest broadcast groups, Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, have ignited controversy by continuing to block the airing of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on their ABC affiliate stations. The move has fueled criticism that major networks are caving under political pressure rather than standing up for free expression.
Both Sinclair Broadcast and Nexstar are doubling down on censorship, blocking Jimmy Kimmel’s show from reaching the airwaves. This is not just disappointing — it’s outrageous. You should be furious too. At a time when powerful voices must stand up to the White House, these networks chose to bow down instead. While Sinclair and Nexstar silence Jimmy Kimmel, I will make sure his show is seen by the world. If they won’t carry it, we will. Subscribe to support journalism that will never cave to pressure.
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Sinclair announced that beginning Tuesday, it would pull Jimmy Kimmel Live! from its ABC affiliates and replace it with news programming. The company emphasized that discussions with ABC were still underway, leaving the possibility of Kimmel’s eventual return uncertain.
Nexstar, meanwhile, doubled down on its earlier decision to preempt the late-night show. The company defended the move by citing what it called Kimmel’s “ill-timed and insensitive” remarks during a tense period in the national conversation. Nexstar claimed its priority was to foster “respectful, constructive dialogue” in the local markets it serves. For now, Nexstar stations plan to fill the time slot with locally produced news and other programming, pointing out that Kimmel’s show is still accessible through streaming platforms.
The controversy has not unfolded in a vacuum. Nexstar is currently awaiting FCC approval for a massive $6.2 billion merger with rival broadcaster Tegna — a deal that would solidify its dominance in the local TV market. With Trump-appointed FCC officials holding the majority, politics are inevitably tied to the decision.
Notably, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr publicly praised Nexstar for preempting the show, calling Kimmel’s remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk “some of the sickest conduct possible.” Carr even suggested local TV licenses could be at risk, adding fuel to concerns about political interference in media operations. Nexstar insists its decision was made independently, though the timing raises eyebrows.
The suppression of Jimmy Kimmel Live! underscores a troubling trend: corporate media outlets bowing to political pressure instead of protecting open dialogue and independent voices. Critics argue this sets a dangerous precedent, where broadcasters shy away from content that may offend those in power.
For viewers, the frustration is clear. Many see the blackout not as an act of responsibility but as censorship that denies audiences access to a national program. While Nexstar and Sinclair may frame their decisions as attempts to maintain civility, the broader effect is silencing dissent and limiting the reach of perspectives that challenge the current administration.
The dispute over Jimmy Kimmel Live! is about more than one late-night host — it’s about whether media organizations will stand up to political pressure or continue to fold when controversy arises. Independent journalism and free expression thrive only when networks resist interference. For now, audiences will need to rely on streaming platforms to watch Kimmel, as traditional broadcasters signal they are unwilling to take that stand.