Jimmy Kimmel’s return to late-night TV has sparked fresh controversy after Disney announced his show would resume. ABC had initially suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! following backlash over comments he made about a recent national tragedy. Disney later explained the move was “a temporary measure taken to allow space during a sensitive period.”

ABC and Disney said that after discussions with Kimmel, it was “appropriate for the show to return” the following Tuesday. But the plan quickly met resistance from Sinclair Inc., which operates nearly 40 ABC affiliates. Known for its conservative stance, Sinclair declared it will not air the program, instead replacing it with local news.

Sinclair argued the decision reflected concerns about “network accountability and content standards.” The company is demanding “a formal apology from Kimmel” along with additional actions before restoring the show.

Among those conditions are “a public apology directed toward individuals affected” and a “meaningful personal gesture, including a donation to related causes.” Sinclair stressed that these steps are necessary for national broadcasting.

For now, Kimmel’s future on TV remains uncertain in Sinclair markets, with wider questions about late-night programming and media responsibility still unresolved.