D.C. viewers in "Kimmel blackout" as Sinclair boycotts show
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"Jimmy Kimmel Live!" won't air on Sinclair-owned ABC affiliates. Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images
A "Kimmel blackout" is descending on D.C. as Sinclair says it will keep "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" off air at more than 40 ABC stations, including local WJLA-TV/ABC7, despite Disney returning the show tonight.
Why it matters: Maryland-based media giant Sinclair's decision is pouring fuel on a free speech debate already inflamed by Kimmel's weeklong suspension.
Driving the news: Sinclair and Texas-based Nexstar, which combined control more than 20% of ABC's affiliates, plan to preempt the show indefinitely.
- Sinclair said in a Monday statement that it plans to replace Kimmel with "news programming" while discussions with ABC continue.
- Nexstar said Tuesday that it stands by its decision "pending assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in the markets we serve."
Catch up quick: The broadcasters yanked Kimmel's show from their affiliates last week amid criticism from Federal Communications Commission chair Brendan Carr over the late-night host's comments in the wake of Charlie Kirk's killing.
- Disney said it decided to suspend production of the show "to avoid further inflaming a tense situation at an emotional moment for our country."
- The moves sparked backlash from celebrities, policymakers and free speech advocates.
- Disney reversed course Monday after "thoughtful conversations with Jimmy," announcing Kimmel's return tonight.
Context: Sinclair is exploring a possible divestiture of its local broadcast stations, while Nexstar is acquiring Tegna. Both transactions require regulatory approval.
- Sinclair is a major media player with ABC affiliates in D.C., Baltimore and beyond. Its owner, David D. Smith, acquired the Baltimore Sun last year.
Zoom in: Local calls to protest Sinclair, WJLA-TV and its advertisers are growing online.
- Meanwhile, at least one Kimmel watch party has been canceled. Popular D.C. bar Shaw's Tavern nixed its plans, citing "broadcasting restrictions and legality issues."
Reality check: Kimmel is still available — for a price. Viewers can watch via Disney's streaming subscriptions or free trials from DirecTV, Fubo or Hulu.