Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates ABC’s network of television stations, will not air Jimmy Kimmel’s show when it returns Tuesday

NOT SO FAST: Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates ABC’s network of television stations, will not air Jimmy Kimmel’s show when it returns Tuesday

When late-night host Jimmy Kimmelannounced his highly anticipated return to television after a months-long hiatus, many fans expected to tune in on their local ABC affiliates to catch the comedian’s trademark mix of political satire, celebrity interviews, and cultural commentary. But for millions of viewers across the country, there will be no such opportunity.

On Monday evening, Sinclair Broadcast Group confirmed that its stations, many of which carry ABC programming, will not air Jimmy Kimmel Live! when the show resumes Tuesday night. The decision has triggered a wave of confusion, criticism, and questions about the intersection of corporate media power, free expression, and entertainment.