nexstar and Jimmy kimmel: Why Your Local ABC Station Might Not Be Airing Late Night
A dispute between Nexstar Media Group and Disney-ABC has led to Jimmy Kimmel Live! being pulled from the programming schedule on numerous local ABC affiliates. This situation has left manny viewers wondering what’s happening and why they can’t watch their favorite late-night show. Here’s a thorough look at the situation, the stations involved, and the core of the disagreement.
What is Nexstar Media Group?
Nexstar is the largest local television broadcaster in the United States. They own, operate, or service over 200 stations across the country, reaching a vast audience. Importantly, Nexstar owns a meaningful number of ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox affiliate stations.
Which ABC Stations are Affected?
You might find Jimmy Kimmel Live! missing from your local ABC lineup if you live in a market served by a Nexstar-owned affiliate. Here are a few examples:
* WDHN – Dothan, alabama
* WTNH – New Haven, Connecticut
* WEHT – Evansville, Indiana
* WGNO – New Orleans, Louisiana
* WSYR-TV – Syracuse, New York
A complete and regularly updated list of Nexstar’s station holdings can be found through industry resources detailing media ownership.
Why is Jimmy Kimmel Live! Not Airing on Nexstar Stations?
The core of the issue stems from comments made by Jimmy Kimmel on his show regarding the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk. Nexstar publicly objected to Kimmel’s remarks and announced it would cease airing the program “for the foreseeable future.”
Specifically, Kimmel addressed the incident during his September 15, 2025, broadcast. He noted the attempts to distance the suspected shooter, Tyler Robinson, from those aligned with certain political ideologies. He also emphasized the grief surrounding the event, stating, “In between the finger-pointing, there was grieving.”
What was Kimmel’s Original Statement?
Following the news of Charlie Kirk’s death, Kimmel released a statement on Instagram expressing his condolences to the Kirk family. He pleaded for a moment of unity and reflection, stating, “Rather of the angry finger-pointing, can we just for one day agree that it is indeed horrible and monstrous to shoot another human?”
He further conveyed his family’s love and support to the Kirks and all victims of senseless gun violence. This statement, however, did not appease Nexstar’s concerns regarding his initial on-air commentary.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you rely on your local ABC affiliate for late-night entertainment, you’ll need to find alternative ways to watch Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Options include streaming services that carry the show, accessing clips online, or checking if other local stations in your area are broadcasting it.
A Broader Context: Media Ownership and Content Control
This situation highlights the increasing concentration of media ownership and the potential for these large corporations to influence the content you see. nexstar’s decision demonstrates how a broadcaster can leverage its market power to express its disapproval of content it deems objectionable.This is a growing trend in the media landscape, and it’s something to be aware of as you consume news and entertainment.
This dispute serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between broadcasters, content creators, and viewers. As the media landscape continues to evolve, understanding these dynamics is crucial for staying informed and making informed choices about your media consumption.
