Jimmy Kimmel Live has officially returned to ABC after a short suspension, but many viewers across the U.S. still won’t see it on their local TV screens. Two of the nation’s largest station groups—Nexstar and Sinclair—announced that they will continue to preempt the late-night talk show, despite the network’s decision to reinstate it.
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ABC Suspends, Then Reinstates Kimmel
The controversy began on September 15, 2025, when Jimmy Kimmel
opened his show with a monologue addressing the tragic shooting of conservative
activist Charlie Kirk. During his
remarks, Kimmel accused the “MAGA gang” of politicizing the tragedy and mocked
the national mourning response, criticizing the lowering of flags to
half-staff. He compared the act to a child grieving a lost pet, sparking
outrage nationwide.
Three days later, on September 18, ABC announced Kimmel’s suspension in response to the backlash. But less than a week afterward, the network reversed course. On September 23, ABC confirmed the show would return, saying the matter had been resolved and that production would move forward.
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Nexstar and Sinclair Refuse to Air the Show
Although ABC brought Kimmel back, some affiliates are holding firm. Both Nexstar and Sinclair Broadcasting have said they will not carry the
program in their markets.
·
Sinclair
will block the show across more than 40
ABC affiliates, including key cities such as Seattle, Washington D.C., Tacoma, and Portland.
· Nexstar also stood by its decision, releasing a statement that read:
.jpg "How to watch the Jimmy Kimmel Show live?")
“We stand by that decision pending assurance that all parties are
committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in
the markets we serve.”
As a result, viewers in those areas won’t find Jimmy Kimmel Live on their local ABC stations for now.