Nexstar Jimmy Kimmel Boycott: Why Local ABC Stations Won’t Air His Return

Jimmy Kimmel returned to ABC on Tuesday night. But Nexstar and Sinclair, two of the largest TV station groups, will not broadcast his show. Together they control more than 20 percent of ABC’s local affiliates across the United States.

The move follows a backlash over Kimmel’s comments on the Trump administration’s handling of the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Disney, ABC’s parent company, had announced Kimmel’s show would resume after a week-long suspension. But the local affiliates have taken a different stance.

Nexstar Jimmy Kimmel Boycott Explained

Nexstar announced Tuesday morning that it would pre-empt “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely. Sinclair issued a similar statement Monday evening. Both said they would replace the program with news specials or alternative content until further discussions with ABC take place.

According to the Associated Press, these decisions affect millions of households and a significant portion of Kimmel’s ad revenue base. Reuters noted that Nexstar and Sinclair’s stations cover large markets, meaning many viewers will lose access to the late-night show despite its official return on ABC.

The boycott adds to an already tense standoff between Disney and its affiliate partners. Disney relies on these stations to distribute shows nationwide, while the station groups depend on the network’s content to drive local audiences. This disagreement could trigger wider conflicts if not resolved soon.

Impact on Viewers and Industry

For viewers, the boycott means many will not be able to watch Kimmel’s return in their local markets. Fans have already expressed frustration on social media, questioning why the show is being blocked. Some have said they will turn to streaming platforms to catch episodes.

Industry analysts say the dispute highlights the fragile balance between networks and their affiliates. ABC faces the risk of losing late-night audience share. Nexstar and Sinclair risk upsetting loyal viewers who may prefer unfiltered access to network programming.

In the short term, the boycott creates uncertainty for advertisers. Brands that invested in spots on Kimmel’s return may see reduced reach in key regions. Long term, the conflict could prompt ABC to consider new distribution strategies, including direct-to-consumer streaming pushes.

The Nexstar Jimmy Kimmel boycott is more than a programming dispute. It reflects growing tensions in U.S. television as networks, affiliates, and audiences clash over content and control.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Nexstar boycott Jimmy Kimmel?

Nexstar pre-empted the show after backlash over Kimmel’s comments about the Trump administration and Charlie Kirk’s killing.

Q2: How many stations are affected?

Together, Nexstar and Sinclair control over 20 percent of ABC affiliates, covering millions of U.S. households.

Q3: Will fans still be able to watch?

Yes. The show airs on ABC nationally and streams online. But in many markets, it won’t be shown live on local ABC stations.

Q4: What does this mean for ABC?

The boycott threatens ad revenue and audience reach. It may also strain Disney’s relationship with local affiliates.

Q5: Could this set a precedent?

Yes. If unresolved, it could encourage more station groups to challenge network programming decisions.

References

Reuters. (2025). Disney and ABC face affiliate backlash over Kimmel return.

Associated Press. (2025). Nexstar, Sinclair pre-empt Jimmy Kimmel Live.

BBC News. (2025). U.S. TV affiliates boycott late-night return.