LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Sinclair Broadcast Group, the largest ABC affiliate group in the nation, has decided to indefinitely suspend “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following controversial comments made by Mr. Kimmel regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
“Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country,” Vice Chairman Jason Smith said.
Sinclair has expressed its commitment to fostering respectful and constructive dialogue within communities.
“We believe broadcasters have a responsibility to educate and elevate respectful, constructive dialogue in our communities,” Smith said.
The company acknowledged remarks from FCC Chairman Carr, emphasizing the need for regulatory action to address the control national networks have over local broadcasters.
In place of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, Sinclair’s ABC stations will air a special in remembrance of Charlie Kirk this Friday, with additional broadcasts across all Sinclair stations this weekend.
The special is also being offered to all ABC affiliates nationwide, according to a release.
Sinclair has stated that the suspension of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will remain until formal discussions with ABC are held regarding the network’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.
Click here to view the full release.
Sinclair is also calling for Mr. Kimmel to issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and to make a meaningful personal donation to the Kirk Family and Turning Point USA.
The affiliate group has made it clear that regardless of ABC’s future plans for the program, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will not return to their airwaves until they are assured that the standards expected of a national broadcast platform are upheld.
