Sinclair ABC Affiliates Restore Jimmy Kimmel Live! Amid Calls for Accountability and Responsible Broadcasting
Sinclair ABC affiliates have announced the return of Jimmy Kimmel Live! to their stations. The decision comes after Sinclair proposed the implementation of a network-wide independent ombudsman at ABC, in collaboration with Disney. Nexstar Media Group, another station owner that had preempted the show, has not confirmed if they will also restore it, but they have had productive discussions with ABC and Disney.
Sinclair emphasized their commitment to providing accurate and engaging programming for their communities while fulfilling their obligations to air national network shows. The suspension of Kimmel's show by Disney was a result of Sinclair and Nexstar pulling the show following controversial comments made by Kimmel about Trump supporters. Despite the preemptions, ABC reinstated the show, drawing over 6 million viewers.
Sinclair highlighted the importance of responsible broadcasting and respectful dialogue in the wake of recent events, including a shooting at an ABC affiliate station in Sacramento. They proposed measures to enhance accountability, viewer feedback, and community dialogue, such as the introduction of a network-wide independent ombudsman. While ABC and Disney have not yet adopted these measures, Sinclair believes they could strengthen trust and accountability.
The decision to preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! was made independently by Sinclair, without government influence. The company defended their right to exercise judgment regarding the content aired on their local stations, citing free speech as a fundamental principle. Sinclair acknowledged that not everyone may agree with their programming decisions but emphasized the importance of upholding free speech while respecting broadcasters' autonomy in content selection.