After a weeklong suspension triggered by controversial remarks about conservative activist Charlie Kirk, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” returned to ABC on Tuesday, Sept. 23. But for many Californians, the comeback wasn’t visible — until now.
In California, Sinclair owns ABC affiliates in Eureka (KAEF) and Chico-Redding (KRCR) — two regions that missed out on Kimmel’s return earlier this week. But starting Friday, Sept. 26, both stations will resume airing “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” following Sinclair’s announcement that it had “addressed feedback from viewers, advertisers and community leaders.”
Two major broadcast groups — Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group — initially refused to air the show on their ABC affiliates, citing concerns over Kimmel’s comments and a desire to maintain “respectful, constructive dialogue” in their markets. The move sparked backlash from Hollywood and free speech advocates, especially after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr warned Disney and ABC of potential consequences if they didn’t act.
Nexstar Media Group does not currently own any ABC affiliate stations in California.
What did Jimmy Kimmel say in his comeback show?
Kimmel’s first episode back featured a nearly 18-minute monologue defending free speech and clarifying that he never intended to “make light of” Kirk’s death. He thanked supporters and emphasized the importance of standing up to political pressure.
Related: Now that Jimmy Kimmel is back, here’s how to get tickets to see show
What has Newsom said about Kimmel’s suspension?
California Governor Gavin Newsom didn’t appear on Kimmel’s return episode — despite rumors — but made his stance clear on social media: “Thank you to everyone but Brendan Carr. This is a win for free speech everywhere.” Newsom’s comment fueled the debate over political influence in media and the role of local broadcasters in shaping national narratives.
How to watch ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’
For Californians in Eureka and Chico-Redding, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” will once again be available on local ABC stations starting Friday night. For others, the show remains accessible via streaming platforms like Hulu, Disney+, and YouTube TV. The show streams nightly at 8:35 p.m. PST or over the air at 11:35 p.m.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Jimmy Kimmel returns to ABC in Eureka, Chico after Sinclair reversal
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