‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ resumes, yet Sinclair refuses to air

However, not all ABC affiliates will carry the comeback. Sinclair Broadcast Group, one of the country's largest station owners, announced that its ABC outlets will continue to preempt the late-night programme, opting instead for local news. "Discussions with ABC are ongoing as we evaluate the show's potential return," a Sinclair spokesperson told CNN.

The dispute followed backlash over a Kimmel monologue last Monda"Jimmy Kimmel Live!" will return to ABC tonight after nearly a week off air, the network confirmed Monday (September 22).y referencing MAGA reactions to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel said the movement was "desperately trying to characterise this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them."

Two days later, FCC commissioner Brendan Carr, a close ally of former US president Donald Trump, publicly urged ABC to suspend Kimmel. Within hours, station groups Sinclair and Nexstar signalled plans to drop the show, prompting ABC to halt production—sparking a national debate on free speech and government pressure.

Disney, ABC's parent company, said the suspension was intended to "avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country." After "thoughtful conversations with Jimmy," Disney said, the show will return Tuesday, with Kimmel expected to address the controversy in his opening monologue.

Nexstar has yet to confirm whether its ABC affiliates will resume airing the programme. Kimmel's contract expires in May amid declining late-night viewership and advertising revenue.

The suspension drew protests outside Disney offices in New York and Burbank, as well as outside the Hollywood theatre where the show is filmed. More than 400 artists, including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep and Jennifer Aniston, signed an ACLU-organised open letter supporting Kimmel's return.

Democratic lawmakers and free-speech advocates, including PEN America, hailed ABC's decision as a stand against censorship. "This is about fighting for free speech," Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said on X. FCC commissioner Anna M. Gomez added, "I am glad to see Disney find its courage in the face of clear government intimidation."