Nexstar Media Group Announces Return of "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" to ABC Affiliates
1. Major Programming Shift for Local Broadcasters
On September 26, 2025, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: NXST) made a significant announcement in the broadcasting landscape by confirming the return of the popular late-night talk show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" to its television stations affiliated with the ABC Television Network, effective immediately. This move is expected to enhance viewer engagement and bolster advertising revenue across Nexstar's extensive network of local stations.
2. Constructive Dialogue with Disney
In their press release, Nexstar highlighted the productive discussions held with executives at The Walt Disney Company, which owns ABC. The company expressed appreciation for Disney's collaborative approach in addressing concerns that may have arisen during negotiations. This partnership underscores Nexstar's commitment to maintaining quality programming while navigating the complexities of media rights and affiliations.
3. Commitment to Local Broadcasting
Nexstar emphasized its dedication to being a responsible local broadcaster. The company cited its commitment to protecting the First Amendment and ensuring that both local and national news is fact-based and unbiased. This commitment distinguishes Nexstar from other entities in the media landscape, such as cable television and large streaming services.
Nexstar articulated its role as a steward of public airwaves, stressing the importance of serving the specific needs and sensibilities of the communities in which it operates. The company's decisions have consistently been guided by these principles, independent of external pressures from government agencies or individuals.
4. A Leader in Local Broadcasting
As the largest local television broadcasting group in America, Nexstar operates over 200 owned or partner stations across 116 U.S. markets, reaching approximately 220 million viewers. The company's diverse portfolio includes not only ABC affiliates but also national television properties such as The CW and NewsNation, as well as popular multicast networks like Antenna TV and Rewind TV.
Nexstar also holds a 31.3% stake in TV Food Network, further expanding its footprint in the broadcasting industry. The company produces more than 316,000 hours of programming annually, which reinforces its position as a leading diversified media company.
5. Digital Assets and Future Prospects
In addition to its television properties, Nexstar boasts a strong digital presence, with assets that include local TV station websites, The Hill, and NewsNationNow.com. Collectively, these platforms rank among the Top 10 U.S. digital news and information properties, showcasing Nexstar's ability to adapt to the evolving media landscape.
As "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" returns to its ABC affiliates, stakeholders will be keenly observing the impact on viewership ratings and advertising revenue. With Nexstar's commitment to local engagement and quality programming, the company is poised to capitalize on this popular late-night offering, reaffirming its status as a leading player in the broadcasting industry.
