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On September 18, 2025, ABC announced it was suspending Jimmy Kimmel, but less than a week later, the network reversed its decision, saying his show would return on September 23. However, not all stations will air it.
Reports from Fox News reveal that Nexstar and Sinclair have chosen to continue preempting Jimmy Kimmel Live. Sinclair said it won’t air the show on over 40 ABC affiliates, including Seattle, Washington D.C., Tacoma, and Portland. Nexstar stated they want assurances that all parties are committed to respectful, constructive dialogue before airing the program.
Some stations will still broadcast the show. Disney-owned affiliates in major markets like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago will air the episode. Other owners, including Hearst and Grey Media, will also show it.
For fans whose local stations aren’t airing the show, there are streaming options. Tuesday’s episode will be available on DirecTV, Fubo, Hulu Live, and YouTube TV. It will also be on Hulu and Disney+ the next day, and clips, including Jimmy’s opening monologue, will be posted on the show’s YouTube channel.
The suspension stemmed from Jimmy Kimmel’s September 15 monologue about the tragic death of Charlie Kirk. He criticised the “MAGA gang” for using the tragedy for political gain and mocked the national response, including the lowering of flags to half-mast. He compared it to the immature reaction of a child who had lost a pet. His remarks sparked controversy, leading to the temporary suspension.
The decision by Sinclair and Nexstar not to air the show highlights the tension between networks, local stations, and viewers over controversial content. Fans now have to rely on streaming platforms if their local affiliate isn’t airing the episode.