Sinclair Says Kimmel Suspension is Not Enough

In a stunning move against a network and one of its highest-profile talents, Sinclair Broadcast Group announced it is indefinitely preempting "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" from all its ABC-affiliated stations. The company, which is the nation's largest ABC affiliate group, cited recent comments made by Kimmel regarding the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as the reason for the decision.

According to Sinclair's press release, the company informed ABC of its decision, and shortly thereafter, the network suspended production of the late-night show.

This move by a major media company to deplatform a host over commentary is raising serious questions about free speech. It is an interesting, and many would say alarming, development to see a media company like Sinclair, whose entire business model is protected by the First Amendment, attempt to so aggressively suppress speech it deems objectionable. This is a slippery slope that Sinclair is diving headfirst down, setting a precedent where powerful station groups can demand a host be silenced for expressing an opinion they, or a particular political faction, disagree with.

In the company's statement, Vice Chairman Jason Smith called Kimmel’s remarks "inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country." He added, "We believe broadcasters have a responsibility to educate and elevate respectful, constructive dialogue in our communities."

Smith also used the incident to call for government intervention, stating it "highlights the critical need for the FCC to take immediate regulatory action to address control held over local broadcasters by the big national networks.”

Sinclair is not just pulling the show; the company is making a series of demands. It is calling upon Jimmy Kimmel to issue a direct apology to the Kirk family and to make a "meaningful personal donation" to both the Kirk family and Turning Point USA.

The company stated it will not reinstate "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" until "formal discussions are held with ABC regarding the network’s commitment to professionalism and accountability" and until they are "confident that appropriate steps have been taken to uphold the standards expected of a national broadcast platform."

In place of Kimmel's show this Friday, Sinclair will air its own special in remembrance of Charlie Kirk. This special will also be broadcast across all Sinclair-owned stations over the weekend, and the company is offering it to all other ABC affiliates nationwide.