Jimmy Kimmel Live! has been pulled “for the foreseeable future” across many ABC affiliate markets, sparking backlash—and cheers from Donald Trump abroad.
ABC confirmed the preemption began Wednesday after Nexstar Media Group, which owns numerous ABC affiliates, objected to Kimmel’s remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. On Monday, Kimmel mocked efforts to spin the shooter’s motives, criticized lowering flags for Kirk, and jabbed Trump’s response.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr warned affiliates could face fines, prompting Nexstar to drop the show. Trump, visiting the UK, called Kimmel “ratings challenged” on Truth Social. Kimmel had planned to clarify his comments on-air, but affiliates cut him off. Nexstar says substitutions will continue, leaving the show’s future uncertain.
