The conflict erupted after Jimmy Kimmel made comments during his show that criticized the response of conservatives to the killing of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist. In reaction, major ABC affiliates, including Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group, announced they would pre‑empt “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on their stations. Nexstar cited Kimmel’s remarks as “offensive and insensitive,” stating they would replace the show in their markets.

ABC (which is owned by The Walt Disney Company) responded by pulling the show off its schedule “indefinitely.”  The move followed pressure from federal regulators—namely Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr, who suggested that networks could face license‑related consequences for failing to act.

Despite the initial indefinite suspension, ABC announced the show would return to air after roughly one week. The network said it engaged in “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel and considered the issue resolved sufficiently to resume the show.  Meanwhile, affiliates like Sinclair continue to insist on additional conditions—apologies, re‑negotiated commitments to professionalism—before they will carry the show again.

In short, what began as a backlash over a comedian’s monologue has grown into a multilayered dispute: media corporate governance (ABC/Disney), affiliate station power (Nexstar/Sinclair), regulatory pressure (FCC), talent/media freedom (Kimmel), and political polarization. The outcome remains an important case study in how free speech, commercial broadcasting, and political influence intersect in today’s media ecosystem.