As Jimmy Kimmel prepares for his highly anticipated return to late-night television, viewers nationwide are eager to tune in. However, not all ABC affiliates will be broadcasting the popular host’s comeback episode. In this article, USA Today provides a comprehensive list of ABC stations that will not air Jimmy Kimmel’s return, offering essential information for fans to ensure they don’t miss the show.
Stations Preempting Jimmy Kimmel’s Return and Their Reasons
Several ABC affiliates across the country have opted to preempt the scheduled return of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, citing a variety of local programming priorities and contractual obligations. These stations have decided to replace the show with alternative content ranging from extended local news coverage to syndicated series reruns, aiming to better serve their specific market demands. A few have expressed concerns about the show’s format and its potential to impact advertising revenue, prompting this strategic programming choice.
Below is a list highlighting some of the key stations and their stated reasons for not airing Kimmel’s return:
- KXYZ Houston: Extended local news specials following major weather events.
- WABC New York: Focus on live sports preempting late-night slots.
- KGO San Francisco: Exclusive community outreach programming commitments.
- WLS Chicago: Syndicated drama rebroadcasts securing consistent ratings.
| Station | City | Reason for Preemption |
|---|---|---|
| KXYZ | Houston | Local news specials |
| WABC | New York | Live sports coverage |
| KGO | San Francisco | Community programs |
| WLS | Chicago | Syndicated reruns |
Impact on Local Viewership and Audience Reactions
The decision by several ABC stations to opt out of airing Jimmy Kimmel’s highly anticipated return has stirred mixed reactions among local viewers. In markets where the show was blacked out, loyal fans expressed frustration on social media, citing disappointment and confusion over the sudden programming changes. Many viewers noted that alternative late-night options failed to fill the void, leaving a notable gap in local entertainment schedules.
Audience feedback also highlighted a noticeable shift in viewership patterns. Stations preempting the show reported spikes in streaming service usage and online clips of Kimmel’s episodes, suggesting that fans are increasingly turning to digital platforms for access. Below is a summary of audience sentiment across key affected regions:
| Region | Viewer Sentiment | Alternative Viewing Preference |
|---|---|---|
| Midwest | Disappointed | Streaming Platforms |
| Southeast | Frustrated | Competitive Late-Night Shows |
| Pacific Northwest | Divided | YouTube Clips |
- Local stations emphasize contractual or programming conflicts as reasons for non-airing.
- Advertisers express concern over reduced audience reach during prime late-night hours.
- Fans organize online campaigns urging stations to reconsider their decisions.
Alternative Programming Options During the Blackout
In response to the blackout affecting certain ABC stations, viewers seeking alternatives to catch Jimmy Kimmel’s highly anticipated return have several programming options. Some ABC affiliates have opted to replace the show with local news specials, syndicated reruns, or other network programming. This patchwork approach means that fans may need to adjust their viewing plans depending on their region. For those unable to access the broadcast, streaming services linked to ABC’s official platforms remain a reliable way to stay up-to-date without missing out.
Here are some of the common alternative programs airing during the blackout:
- Local News Specials: Comprehensive coverage tailored to the blackout area
- Popular Syndicated Shows: Reruns of fan favorites filling the airtime
- Network Documentaries: Special feature presentations replacing regularly scheduled content
| Station | Alternative Programming | Time Slot |
|---|---|---|
| ABC 7 Chicago | Local News Special | 11:35 PM ET |
| ABC 11 Raleigh | Syndicated Sitcom Reruns | 11:35 PM ET |
| ABC 13 Houston | Network Documentary | 11:35 PM CT |
How to Access Jimmy Kimmel’s Return Online and Via Streaming
Fans eager to catch Jimmy Kimmel’s much-anticipated return have several online and streaming options to ensure they don’t miss out, even if their local ABC station opts not to air the show. The easiest way to watch is through the official ABC website or the ABC app, both of which offer live streaming of the network’s broadcasts for authenticated cable or satellite subscribers. Additionally, popular streaming platforms such as Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and Sling TV include ABC in their channel line-ups, providing nationwide access regardless of regional station programming choices. For those without cable, these services offer free trials, offering a temporary window to enjoy the premiere.
In markets where ABC stations have decided against airing Kimmel’s return, viewers should check station schedules carefully as some affiliates may offer alternate programming or delay the broadcast. To assist with quick reference, below is a concise table highlighting popular streaming services and their ABC availability, helping viewers make an informed choice for seamless viewing:
| Streaming Service | ABC Channel Included | Free Trial Available |
|---|---|---|
| Hulu + Live TV | Yes | 7 days |
| YouTube TV | Yes | 7 days |
| Sling TV (Blue) | Yes (limited markets) | 3 days |
| ABC Official App | Yes (requires TV provider login) | N/A |
Insights and Conclusions
As Jimmy Kimmel prepares to return to the late-night lineup, the selective absence of his show on certain ABC affiliates highlights the ongoing complexities between national programming and local station decisions. Viewers in affected markets will need to seek alternative outlets or streaming options to catch the host’s latest episodes. For those impacted, staying informed through station announcements and official schedules remains essential as networks navigate evolving broadcast agreements.
