TV proprietors of local channels find common ground with the FCC Chair, aligning on the matter discussed on Jimmy Kimmel's show.
The local television industry is grappling with challenges from consumers cancelling subscriptions and networks asking for higher fees for distributing their programming. In an attempt to address these issues, some companies are seeking debt consolidation, with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) considering changes that would allow for more consolidation in the broadcast industry.
One of the leading advocates for regulatory relief is Nexstar Media Group Inc., a company that recently announced it will be pulling Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show from its lineup. This decision, made independently, was not influenced by any communication with the FCC or any government agency. Nexstar's rival, Sinclair Inc., the largest owner of ABC affiliates, has also followed suit, citing the Kimmel situation as a reflection of the need for immediate regulatory action.
The Kimmel situation has been linked to the local TV industry's push for regulatory relief. According to Andrew Schwartzman, a communications attorney, the industry believes that owning more stations would allow them to cut costs and give them more clout in negotiations with cable operators and networks. Hank Price, a former station manager, adds that this could provide an opportunity for affiliates to use the time period for news or other programming for less than what the network shows cost them.
Nexstar is seeking to acquire rival station owner Tegna Inc. in a transaction worth $6.2 billion, including debt. If approved, this deal would allow Nexstar to reach 80% of US households, twice the current limit. The FCC needs to approve not only the transfer of Tegna's station licenses, but also the rule changes for the deal to go through, with a potential decision as early as Sept. 30.
The controversy surrounding Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show has been influenced by Republican FCC member Brendan Carr and supporters of former President Donald Trump, who accused the show and similar programs of biased reporting and threatened broadcasters with license revocation. Sinclair, tied the Kimmel situation to larger goals, stating that it highlights the critical need for the FCC to take immediate regulatory action to address control held over local broadcasters by the big national networks.
Andrew Alford, president of Nexstar's broadcasting division, stated that Kimmel's comments about the death of political activist Charlie Kirk were offensive and insensitive. Both Nexstar and Sinclair own stations in markets where many viewers were supporters of Charlie Kirk and offended by Kimmel's comments.
Sinclair is considering deals, including a potential sale or breakup, but did not respond to a request for comment. The local TV industry's push for regulatory relief and consolidation continues, with the potential for significant changes in the near future.
Read also:
- Planned construction of enclosures within Görlitzer Park faces delays
- Controversy resurfaces following the elimination of diesel filter systems at Neckartor: A renewed conflict over the diesel restriction policy
- Foreign financial aid for German citizens residing abroad persists
- Ukraine experiences a transformation in overseas money transfers
