Jimmy Kimmel Live returns to ABC after suspension, but Sinclair & Nexstar affiliates still refuse to air it, sparking free speech debates.

Introduction

Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night program has officially returned to ABC, but millions of households remain unable to tune in. While the network lifted its suspension on Tuesday night, broadcasting giants Sinclair and Nexstar announced they will still keep the show off their ABC affiliate stations. Their decision has intensified an already heated debate involving free expression, political pressure, and the broader rules of U.S. television broadcasting.

Jimmy Kimmel’s Show Returns After Suspension

ABC announced on Monday that Kimmel’s late-night program would resume airing, following days of discussions with the comedian after a controversial monologue. The network said the decision to suspend production was made to “avoid further inflaming a tense situation.”

Kimmel is expected to address the controversy directly in his Tuesday night monologue, which will feature guests Glen Powell and Sarah McLachlan.

Why Sinclair and Nexstar Are Still Blocking Kimmel

Despite ABC’s greenlight, Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group are refusing to air the show on their affiliates, which together represent about 20% of ABC stations nationwide.

• Sinclair announced it would continue to preempt Kimmel’s slot with local news programming.
• Nexstar defended its move, citing Kimmel’s remarks about MAGA supporters and the Charlie Kirk assassination as “ill-timed and insensitive.”

Both groups framed their decision as part of their responsibility to maintain “respectful, constructive dialogue” in the communities they serve.

Political Reactions and FCC Involvement

The standoff has become deeply political. FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, a Trump ally, praised affiliates for exercising their “lawful right to preempt programming.” Meanwhile, Trump himself attacked ABC’s decision to reinstate Kimmel, suggesting possible legal action against the network.

On the other side, Democratic lawmakers and free speech groups applauded ABC for reversing the suspension.

• California Gov. Gavin Newsom called it “a win for free speech.”
• Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the show’s reinstatement, framing it as part of a larger struggle against what he described as overreach by Donald Trump and FCC commissioner Brendan Carr.
• PEN America described the return as a “vindication for free expression.”

The Bigger Picture for Disney and Broadcast TV

The controversy comes at a delicate time for Disney, ABC’s parent company, which faces government negotiations over upcoming media deals. Analysts also note the timing matters for late-night television’s future:

• Declining ratings across the genre.
• Advertiser concerns over political controversies.
• Contract talks with Kimmel, whose deal expires in May.

Despite these challenges, more than 400 celebrities and artists, including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, and Jennifer Aniston, signed an ACLU-backed letter supporting Kimmel, putting additional pressure on Disney to restore the show.

FAQs

Q1: Is Jimmy Kimmel returning to ABC?
Yes, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” is returning on Tuesday night after nearly a week of suspension.

Q2: Why are Sinclair and Nexstar blocking Jimmy Kimmel’s show?
Both station groups claim Kimmel’s recent remarks were insensitive and are continuing to preempt the show with alternative programming.

Q3: What role did the FCC play in Kimmel’s suspension?
FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr publicly supported the affiliates’ right to block the program, fueling concerns of political influence in media regulation.

Q4: How did celebrities respond to Kimmel’s suspension?
More than 400 artists, including Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, signed a letter organized by the ACLU urging ABC to reinstate Kimmel.

Q5: What is the broader issue behind this controversy?
The case highlights ongoing tensions between free speech protections, political pressure on media companies, and the challenges of broadcast television in a polarized climate.

Conclusion

Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night return highlights more than just a TV comeback — it has become a flashpoint in the national debate over media freedom, political influence, and corporate responsibility. With Sinclair and Nexstar affiliates continuing their blackout, millions of viewers may be left turning to YouTube and streaming platforms to catch Kimmel’s return.

👉 Do you think affiliates should have the power to block nationally broadcast shows? Share your thoughts in the comments below.