Host Pushes Back After Network Demands Apology
Jimmy Kimmel has refused demands to apologize to the family of slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk or make a donation to Kirk’s relatives and Turning Point USA. These demands were issued by Sinclair Broadcast Group, a major ABC affiliate owner, following ABC’s indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! after backlash over his comments on Kirk’s death.
Kimmel reportedly told Disney executives he would not issue a contrition statement or fulfill the donation request. Sinclair stated the show would not return to its stations unless Kimmel publicly apologized and made a “meaningful personal donation,” calling ABC’s suspension insufficient.
Nexstar Media Group, another large affiliate owner, also pulled the program, citing “community values.” These actions significantly reduced the show’s national reach before ABC formally pre-empted the broadcast. Kimmel’s monologue criticized political groups for allegedly exploiting Kirk’s murder for gain. Sinclair and Nexstar considered the remarks offensive and pushed for corrective action. Sinclair plans to air a tribute to Kirk in the time slot, reinforcing its stance.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr supported the affiliates’ decisions, criticizing Kimmel’s comments but denying direct regulatory involvement. Some media figures defended Kimmel, framing the suspension as a free speech issue. ABC has described the situation as a temporary pre-emption rather than a cancellation, leaving the door open for reinstatement if affiliate conditions are met. However, Sinclair insists only a direct apology and donation will allow the show to return. The standoff highlights tensions between network programming and affiliate influence, testing the limits of editorial expression for high-profile hosts. The show’s return remains uncertain as the dispute continues.
