Jimmy Kimmel has refused to apologize to the family of slain activist Charlie Kirk or donate to his relatives and Turning Point USA, despite demands from Sinclair Broadcast Group. According to reports, Kimmel told Disney executives he would not issue a contrition statement or make a donation. ABC has already suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely after backlash over his remarks.
Sinclair declared the suspension “not enough” and said the show would not return unless Kimmel makes a “meaningful personal donation.” Nexstar Media Group also pulled the program, citing “community values.” These moves drastically cut the show’s reach before ABC’s formal pre-emption.
Kimmel’s monologue, in which he criticized political groups for exploiting Kirk’s murder, sparked outrage from affiliates who called his comments offensive. Sinclair even plans to air a tribute to Kirk in Kimmel’s time slot.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr supported the affiliates, calling Kimmel’s remarks inappropriate for national broadcast. Others defended Kimmel, saying the suspension undermines free speech.
ABC described the move as a temporary pre-emption, but Sinclair insists only an apology and donation will suffice. The standoff highlights tensions between networks and affiliates, leaving the show’s return uncertain.
