Jimmy Kimmel blackout ends after halt following comments on Charlie Kirk killing

Host Jimmy Kimmel speaks during the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles in 2024 (Chris Pizzello/AP)

Sinclair Broadcast Group is bringing Jimmy Kimmel’s late-night show back to its ABC affiliate stations on Friday night, ending a days-long TV blackout for dozens of cities across the US over remarks the comedian made in the wake of conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s killing.

“Our objective throughout this process has been to ensure that programming remains accurate and engaging for the widest possible audience,” Sinclair said in a statement on Friday afternoon.

“We take seriously our responsibility as local broadcasters to provide programming that serves the interests of our communities, while also honouring our obligations to air national network programming.”

Charlie Kirk and Jimmy Kimmel (AP)

Disney-owned ABC suspended Kimmel on September 17, following threats of potential repercussions from the Trump-appointed head of the Federal Communications Commission.

Nexstar, another affiliates group had announced it would preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! before ABC’s decision, and Sinclair also condemned the host.

And even after Disney brought Kimmel back to its national airways on Tuesday, both Sinclair and Nexstar continued to preempt the show.