The Great Kimmel Comeback: Broadcast Giants End Controversial Blackout
In a sudden and dramatic reversal, media titans Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group have ended their highly publicized boycott of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, restoring the late-night talk show to their ABC affiliate stations just days after pulling it from the airwaves .
Why Was Kimmel Boycotted?
The boycott began on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, when both Sinclair and Nexstar preempted the show’s season premiere across their combined 50+ ABC affiliates. The decision was widely seen as a direct response to a segment on Kimmel’s show that featured a heated exchange with conservative commentator Charlie Kirk . The stations replaced the program with local news or other syndicated content, sparking immediate backlash from viewers and free speech advocates.
The Infographic: By The Numbers
| Media Group | ABC Affiliates Affected | Boycott Start Date | Restoration Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sinclair Broadcast Group | ~30 stations | September 23, 2025 | September 26, 2025 |
| Nexstar Media Group | 24 stations | September 23, 2025 | September 26, 2025 |
What Changed?
While neither company issued a detailed public explanation for the abrupt U-turn, industry analysts point to a potent combination of factors:
- Viewer Outrage: A massive wave of complaints from subscribers and local advertisers.
- Contractual Pressure: Potential breaches of affiliation agreements with ABC network.
- Public Relations Crisis: Widespread media coverage framing the move as censorship .
Nexstar confirmed the show would return to its 24 ABC affiliates “beginning Friday, September 26” . Sinclair followed suit, announcing the same-day restoration of the program across its network of ABC stations .
The Bigger Picture: Media, Politics, and Local TV
This incident highlights the immense power held by a few large station groups over what content millions of Americans can access on broadcast television. The swift reversal demonstrates that even these giants are not immune to public pressure and the foundational agreements that govern network television.
What’s Next for Kimmel?
With his show back on the air in all major markets, Jimmy Kimmel is expected to address the controversy in an upcoming episode. The event has reignited a national conversation about the intersection of politics, media ownership, and freedom of expression on public airwaves.
