Fact-check analysisVerified as of September 23, 2025Curated by FactVerify
True

Owner of 31 ABC Stations, Sinclair Broadcast Group said they REFUSE to broadcast Jimmy Kimmel even after ABC brought him back

The claim is true because multiple reliable sources confirm that Sinclair Broadcast Group, which owns over 30 ABC affiliate stations, has refused to air Jimmy Kimmel's show even after ABC announced his return, demanding an apology and a donation to Charlie Kirk's family before lifting the suspension.

Jimmy Kimmel: Sinclair Broadcast Group calls for more punishment - The Baltimore Banner

Jimmy Kimmel: Sinclair Broadcast Group calls for more punishment - The Baltimore Banner

Source: thebanner.com

At a glance

Key Evidence

Verified September 23, 2025
The reporting

What the Evidence Shows

Sinclair Broadcast Group, a major owner of ABC affiliate stations (over 30), has publicly stated it will not broadcast Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show following his controversial comments about conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. This stance remains firm despite ABC and Disney announcing Kimmel's return to the air. Sinclair's refusal is tied to demands that Kimmel apologize and make a donation to Charlie Kirk's family and conservative organizations before the show can resume on their stations.

Several sources report that Sinclair replaced Kimmel's time slot with alternative programming, including a tribute special to Charlie Kirk. Discussions between Sinclair and ABC regarding professionalism and accountability are ongoing, but no agreement has been reached to reinstate Kimmel on Sinclair-owned stations. This situation is part of a broader context where other large station groups like Nexstar have also preempted Kimmel's show due to similar concerns.

The evidence consistently shows Sinclair's explicit refusal to air Kimmel despite the network's decision to bring him back.

Primary trail

Verified Sources10

Jimmy Kimmel: Sinclair Broadcast Group calls for more punishment

thebanner.com
Open source

ABC affiliate group Sinclair demands Jimmy Kimmel stay off the air until he...

ew.com
Open source

Sinclair says it won't air Jimmy Kimmel on its stations after Disney announced...

businessinsider.com
Open source
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