ABC Affiliates Preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! for Charlie Kirk Tribute
On Friday, September 19, 2025, several ABC affiliates, including Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, will preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! to air a special tribute titled In Remembrance of Charlie Kirk. This follows ABC’s indefinite suspension of the late-night show after host Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial remarks regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
Background:
Kimmel sparked outrage with comments accusing conservatives of exploiting Kirk’s murder and disputing claims about the alleged assassin Tyler Robinson’s political affiliations. His statements drew sharp criticism from conservative media and political figures.
Affiliate Responses:
Sinclair and Nexstar cited Kimmel’s remarks as “inappropriate and deeply insensitive,” demanding a public apology and charitable donations from Kimmel. They replaced his show with the tribute special honoring Kirk’s conservative activism and leadership of Turning Point USA.
ABC Suspension:
Under mounting pressure—including from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and former President Donald Trump—ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely, igniting debate over free speech and media accountability.
