Kimmel’s return looms as affiliates withhold airing amid apology pressure

ABC's late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is set to return to the air Tuesday after Disney pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! last week amid backlash over remarks about the killing of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. An industry insider told the Daily Mail that for Kimmel to win back conservative viewers his monologue should include a sincere apology for remarks that framed the suspect in Kirk's killing as aligned with the MAGA movement and to signal a more even handed approach going forward.

Disney described the decision to pull the program as a measure to avoid inflaming a tense moment for the country. After thoughtful conversations the company said the show will return to its platforms Tuesday night. Yet Sinclair and Nexstar, which operate the largest blocks of ABC affiliates, have said they will not air the program on their stations, a move that would leave about a third of ABC's local outlets without the broadcast. A source with knowledge of the talks said executives remain unsure of what Kimmel will say tonight, making it risky for affiliates to commit before hearing the host's remarks.

Charlie Kirk's funeral had driven huge ratings, according to insiders, underscoring the strength of feeling in conservative markets. Some viewers in traditionally conservative areas, including Salt Lake City, supported the affiliates' decision to withhold the program, while others argued the network should exercise more flexibility to meet audiences where they are.

Discussions around the return include the possibility of a formal apology or clarifications from Kimmel. A Fox News report cited a source who said an apology would satisfy some affiliates, and Disney has reportedly been coordinating with Kirk's Turning Point USA to resolve the dispute and pursue a peaceful resolution. ABC has not released transcripts of Tuesday's planned monologue, and sources close to the negotiations say a measured approach is being considered but the final language has not been finalized.

Industry observers say the situation highlights the leverage local affiliates hold over national programming when content touches highly charged political and cultural issues. If Kimmel delivers a sincere apology and signals a less divisive tone, some affiliates may reconsider airing the program; if not, the boycott could extend beyond Tuesday and complicate the show's schedule in key markets. Disney officials have emphasized a desire to restore balance and peace with affiliate partners while continuing discussions with Turning Point USA and others involved in the dispute.