NEW YORK (AP) — Jimmy Kimmel is set to return to late-night television Tuesday after a nearly weeklong suspension that triggered a national discussion about freedom of speech and President Donald Trump’s ability to police the words of journalists, commentators, and even comics.
But two groups of ABC affiliates that denounced Kimmel last week said they would not carry his return. Nexstar Media Group said it would continue to preempt the show, “pending assurances that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in the markets we serve.” Sinclair Broadcast Group said it would also keep Kimmel off its stations. The two corporations collectively control about a quarter of ABC affiliates.
ABC, which suspended Kimmel’s show last Wednesday following criticism of his comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, announced Monday that 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' would return after the network had “thoughtful conversations” with the host.
“Our long national late nightmare is over,” Stephen Colbert joked on his CBS show in response to Kimmel’s reinstatement.
Kimmel’s comments suggested that many Trump supporters were trying to capitalize on Kirk’s death and were 'desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.'
Trump-appointed Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr had previously criticized Kimmel for allegedly misleading the public with his remarks, and his comments have sparked backlash, highlighting the tension between freedom of expression and political influence in media.
Amid these discussions, the future of late-night shows remains uncertain, with reports of viewership decline and shifting audience habits.
