Nexstar joined Sinclair in carrying « Jimmy Kimmel Live! » following discussions with Disney after controversy over the host’s remarks about Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
Nexstar Media Group joined Sinclair Broadcast Group in airing « Jimmy Kimmel Live! » following a tense standoff with Disney beginning Friday night.
« We have had discussions with executives at The Walt Disney Company and appreciate their constructive approach to addressing our concerns », Nexstar said in a statement Friday. « As a local broadcaster, Nexstar remains committed to protecting the First Amendment while producing and airing local and national news that is fact-based and unbiased and, above all, broadcasting content that is in the best interest of the communities we serve. »
The company continued: « We stand apart from cable television, monolithic streaming services, and national networks in our commitment – and obligation – to be stewards of the public airwaves and to protect and reflect the specific sensibilities of our communities. To be clear, our commitment to those principles has guided our decisions throughout this process, independent of any external influence from government agencies or individuals. »
Earlier in the day, Sinclair similarly announced it would no longer preempt the late-night show on its ABC affiliates.
« Our objective throughout this process has been to ensure that programming remains accurate and engaging for the widest possible audience. We take seriously our responsibility as local broadcasters to provide programming that serves the interests of our communities, while also honoring our obligations to air national network programming », Sinclair said in a statement.
