Controversy Surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's Return to Late-Night TV
Introduction
After a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ABC is bringing Jimmy Kimmel back to the airwaves. However, the return of the popular late-night host is being met with resistance from some station owners. Both Nexstar and Sinclair have announced that they will continue to preempt Kimmel's show, affecting dozens of markets, including major cities like Washington D.C., Seattle, and Nashville.
Boycott Controversy
The decision to boycott Kimmel is based on his controversial and often divisive political commentary. In the past, he has been vocal in his criticism of President Trump and his administration, leading to backlash from conservative viewers and advertisers. This has caused some station owners to opt out of airing his show, citing concerns over potential backlash from viewers and advertisers.
Implications
The boycott of Kimmel's show highlights the ongoing political divide in the media landscape. While some may see it as a form of censorship, others argue that station owners have the right to choose what content they air. As a result, Kimmel's return to the air will be met with mixed reactions, and it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact his ratings and the late-night television landscape as a whole.
About the People Mentioned
Jimmy Kimmel
James Christian Kimmel, known as Jimmy Kimmel, is an American television host and comedian born on November 13, 1967. He is best known as the host and executive producer of *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*, a late-night talk show on ABC that has aired since 2003. Kimmel holds the distinction of having the longest tenure among current U.S. late-night hosts, with 23 seasons, second only to Johnny Carson’s 30 seasons[^1^]. Before *Jimmy Kimmel Live!*, Kimmel gained recognition as co-host of Comedy Central’s *Win Ben Stein’s Money*, winning a Daytime Emmy Award for Best Game Show Host in 1999, and as co-host of *The Man Show*. He also co-founded Jackhole Industries, a production company behind shows such as *Crank Yankers*, *Sports Show with Norm Macdonald*, and *The Andy Milonakis Show*[^1^][^2^]. Kimmel has hosted major award ceremonies multiple times, including the Primetime Emmy Awards (2012, 2016, 2020) and the Academy Awards in 2017, 2018, 2023, and 2024. His style blends political satire with viral comedy segments, such as “Mean Tweets” and celebrity pranks, contributing to his widespread popularity[^1^][^4^]. In his personal life, Kimmel was first married to Gina Maddy with whom he has two children. Since 2013, he has been married to Molly McNearney, a co-head writer for his show, and they have two children together. Kimmel has publicly shared his experiences with his son Billy’s congenital heart condition, using his platform to raise awareness about healthcare issues[^4^]. Most recently, in September 2025, ABC suspended *Jimmy Kimmel Live!* for a week following controversial comments Kimmel made regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk during a monologue[^1^]. Despite this, Kimmel remains an influential figure in American late-night television and comedy. [^1^]: Wikipedia [^2^]: Biography.com [^4^]: Hausabeats.com
Donald Trump
Donald John Trump, born June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York, is an American businessman, media personality, and politician. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School in 1968 with a degree in economics. In 1971, he took over his family’s real estate business, renaming it the Trump Organization, through which he expanded into building and managing skyscrapers, hotels, casinos, and golf courses. Trump gained widespread fame as the host of the reality TV show *The Apprentice* from 2004 to 2015, which helped establish his public persona as a successful entrepreneur. Trump entered politics as a Republican and was elected the 45th president of the United States, serving from 2017 to 2021. His presidency was marked by significant policy actions including tax cuts, deregulation, the appointment of three Supreme Court justices, renegotiation of trade agreements (notably replacing NAFTA with the USMCA), and a focus on immigration control including border wall expansion. He withdrew the U.S. from international agreements such as the Paris Climate Accord and the Iran nuclear deal, and engaged in a trade war with China. His administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic was criticized for downplaying the virus’s severity. Trump was impeached twice by the House of Representatives—first in 2019 for abuse of power and obstruction, and again in 2021 for incitement of insurrection—but was acquitted by the Senate both times. After losing the 2020 election to Joe Biden, Trump challenged the results, culminating in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. He remains a central figure in American politics, having won the 2024 presidential election and returned as the 47th president in 2025, continuing to promote policies aimed at economic growth, border security, and military strength[1][2][3][4].
About the Organizations Mentioned
ABC
ABC, or Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), is a prominent national trade association dedicated to advancing the construction industry in the United States. Founded in 1950, ABC has grown into a leading advocate for merit shop construction, representing over 21,000 commercial construction and construction-related firms. The organization is committed to helping its members develop skilled people, win work, and deliver projects safely, ethically, and profitably, ultimately contributing to the betterment of communities nationwide. ABC is recognized for its strong emphasis on innovation and technology. Through its Tech Alliance, a curated group of 15 construction technology companies, ABC provides members with access to cutting-edge solutions, educational resources, and beta testing opportunities. This initiative, led by Matthew Abeles, ABC’s Vice President of Construction Technology and Innovation, positions the association at the forefront of construction technology adoption. ABC also publishes insightful reports, such as the ABC Field Tech Report, which highlights transformative technologies like drones, robotics, and laser scanning, reshaping safety and efficiency on modern job sites. Throughout its history, ABC has championed workforce development, safety standards, and ethical business practices. The organization is known for its robust advocacy efforts, promoting policies that support a competitive and fair construction environment. ABC’s chapters across the country offer local support, networking, and professional development opportunities, fostering a strong sense of community among its members. Today, ABC remains a vital force in the construction industry, driving innovation, supporting its members, and shaping the future of building and infrastructure. Its commitment to technology, education, and ethical business practices makes ABC a key player for anyone interested in the intersection of business and technology in the construction sector.
Nexstar
## Overview Nexstar Media Group, Inc. is the largest local television broadcasting and digital media company in the United States, producing and distributing local and national news, sports, and entertainment content across television and digital platforms[1][2]. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, with additional offices in Manhattan and Chicago, Nexstar owns or partners with more than 200 television stations in 116 U.S. markets, reaching approximately 220 million people—about 70% of U.S. television households[1][2][4]. Its portfolio includes top network affiliates, the national cable news network NewsNation, The CW (America’s fifth major broadcast network), and popular multicast networks Antenna TV and Rewind TV[1]. Nexstar also holds a 31.3% stake in TV Food Network and operates a robust digital ecosystem, including local station websites, The Hill, and NewsNationNow.com, collectively ranking among the top 10 U.S. digital news properties[1]. ## History and Growth Nexstar was founded in 1996 by Perry A. Sook, who began with the acquisition of WYOU in Scranton, Pennsylvania[3][4]. Over the past 25+ years, the company has grown from a single station to a national powerhouse through a series of strategic acquisitions and mergers, including the purchases of Quorum Broadcasting and Media General’s stations, the latter of which doubled Nexstar’s footprint in 2016[3]. The company went public in 2003 and has consistently expanded its reach, investing in both broadcast and digital innovations to stay ahead in a rapidly changing media landscape[3][4]. Nexstar was also a pioneer in negotiating retransmission fees from pay-TV providers, a practice that has since become a major revenue stream for local broadcasters[3]. ## Key Achievements and Innovations Nexstar’s growth is marked by its commitment to localism, professional excellence, and technological innovation
Sinclair
**Sinclair Broadcast Group: A Leader in American Media** Sinclair Broadcast Group is a prominent American telecommunications conglomerate, headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland. Founded in 1971, it has evolved into the second-largest television station operator in the United States, owning or operating over 193 stations across more than 100 markets, reaching approximately 40% of American households[1][2]. Sinclair is known for its extensive network of local television stations affiliated with major networks like Fox, NBC, CBS, ABC, and The CW, as well as its digital multicast networks such as Comet and Charge![1][2]. **History and Key Achievements** Sinclair has a history of strategic acquisitions and innovative ventures. In 2019, it acquired 21 regional sports networks, expanding its sports media presence[2]. The company launched "The National Desk" in 2021, a condensed news program, and "Bally Sports+" in 2022, a direct-to-consumer sports streaming service[2]. Sinclair has also been recognized for its conservative political stance, often featuring content that supports Republican positions[1][2]. **Current Status** Recently, Sinclair has been focusing on strategic reviews and financial restructuring. In March 2025, it announced the sale of several TV stations to Rincon Broadcasting Group[1]. The company reported strong financial results in the first quarter of 2025, exceeding its adjusted EBITDA expectations[3]. Sinclair is currently undergoing a comprehensive strategic review to explore opportunities for growth and transformation in the broadcast industry[4]. **Notable Aspects** Sinclair is notable for its influence in local media markets and its ability to preempt national programming, as seen in its decision to continue airing local content over Jimmy Kimmel's show despite ABC's reinstatement plans[5]. The company's political leanings have been a subject of interest and controversy, reflecting its conservative viewpoint in news programming[1][5]. With its extensive reach and strategic initiatives, Sinclair remains
