Jimmy Kimmel’s highly anticipated return to late-night TV was supposed to be a big moment — but instead, it’s turning into a dramatic standoff. After weeks of controversy surrounding his remarks about a prominent conservative figure, Disney confirmed that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would finally be back on air. But just as fans prepared for the comeback, one of the largest owners of ABC affiliates delivered an unexpected blow: they won’t be airing the show at all.
The tension began when ABC placed Kimmel’s show on hold, saying his commentary came at a sensitive time for the nation. While Disney later reversed course, announcing his return after “thoughtful conversations,” the decision didn’t land smoothly with everyone. Sinclair Inc., which operates nearly 40 ABC affiliate stations across the country, declared that they would not broadcast the show, choosing instead to air local news in its place.
Sinclair’s move marks a rare break from national programming and signals the depth of the backlash. The company said the program would remain off their schedule until certain conditions are met, including assurances of accountability and professionalism. They also called on Kimmel to directly address the controversy with a public apology before they would even consider putting him back on air.
For now, viewers across dozens of major U.S. markets will be left out of Kimmel’s long-awaited return. What was meant to be a smooth comeback has now become an industry standoff — leaving the late-night host’s future uncertain, and raising big questions about how much influence affiliate stations can have over what millions of Americans get to see on their screens.