Here’s the real story. Just like CBS did in the past, Nexstar (now the owner of KTLA here in LA) is angling for a favor to get its $6.2 billion buyout of TEGNA approved. That deal would make Nexstar the largest owner of local TV stations in the country.
“The decision by Nexstar comes as the broadcast station is seeking FCC approval for its $6.2 billion mega deal to acquire TEGNA…”
So what’s their move? They pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! from their ABC affiliates after Kimmel made pointed comments about Charlie Kirk, suggesting the shooting suspect was a MAGA Republican. The FCC Chair praised Nexstar for “doing the right thing” and warned other affiliates about potential license revocation for airing what he called “news distortion.” – hollywoodreporter.com
ABC followed suit, announcing the show would be “pre-empted indefinitely.” Translation: it’s on hiatus with no return date—likely a strategic pause to avoid further affiliate backlash and regulatory heat.
We don’t like to get political. But when a late-night show gets pulled for commentary, and a government agency starts applauding censorship while dangling license threats, it’s not just politics—it’s a warning sign. As creatives, this is not good. Free speech is supposed to be protected in a free country. When broadcasters and regulators start policing satire and opinion, it’s time to pay attention.
AKA Nexstar is cozying up to the FCC’s increasingly religious-leaning leadership to push their mega-merger through. And while the FCC is technically independent, its priorities shift with the political tides—and right now, those tides are anything but neutral.
Watch the final monologue aired last night 9/16/2025
Drop your thoughts below. Whether you’re a creative, a viewer, or just someone who cares about free speech—this moment matters. Are we watching censorship creep in through the back door? Or is this just business as usual in broadcast politics? Let’s talk.
