By Rounak Bagchi
Copyright timesnownews
Two of the largest US local television operators say they will not resume airing Jimmy Kimmel Live! despite Disney’s decision to bring the late-night show back to ABC’s national line-up. Nexstar Media Group said on Tuesday it would continue to pre-empt the programme across the ABC stations it owns and partners with. “We made a decision last week to preempt Jimmy Kimmel Live! following what ABC referred to as Kimmel’s ‘ill-timed and insensitive’ comments at a critical time in our national discourse,” Nexstar said in a statement. “We stand by that decision pending assurance that all parties are committed to fostering an environment of respectful, constructive dialogue in the markets we serve.” The move follows a similar announcement from Sinclair Broadcast Group on Monday. Together, Nexstar and Sinclair represent about 70 ABC affiliates, leaving tens of millions of US viewers unable to watch the show over traditional broadcast. Disney pulled Kimmel’s show “indefinitely” last week after the host criticised Republicans over their response to the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. “The MAGA gang [is] desperately trying to characterise this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said on September 15. His remarks prompted Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr to threaten to “take action” against Disney and ABC. Disney’s suspension of the show drew backlash from celebrities and consumers, some of whom protested or announced boycotts of the company. By Monday, Disney confirmed Kimmel would return to air on Tuesday. However, Nexstar and Sinclair have stood firm. “The show will be available nationwide on multiple Disney-owned streaming products, while our stations will focus on continuing to produce local news and other programming relevant to their respective markets,” Nexstar said. The dispute comes as both broadcasters pursue major business deals. CNBC reported that Sinclair is exploring merger options for its broadcast business, while Nexstar is seeking FCC approval for a $6.2bn merger with station owner Tegna. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World.
