Jimmy Kimmel is staying on ABC’s late-night schedule for longer than expected. A person with direct knowledge of the negotiations said the network reached a new deal with the host that keeps “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on air until May 2027.
Long-running host reinforces ABC’s late-night strategy
The extension comes after a turbulent period for Kimmel. In September, ABC removed his program for several days following backlash to a segment in which he commented on the shooting of activist Charlie Kirk. Disney, which owns the network, called his remarks inappropriate at the time. Kimmel returned the following week and later addressed the suspension on air.
Sources familiar with the talks say the new agreement had been settled months earlier, but both Kimmel and Disney postponed any announcement. The delay aimed to avoid overshadowing Stephen Colbert, who revealed plans to end his CBS show in 2026 after a decade on the air.
Kimmel’s current contract ends in May 2026, and the extension adds another year to his tenure. ABC views Kimmel as a central part of its late-night lineup, especially as competition for younger audiences tightens.
The controversy surrounding his comments still echoes in Washington. FCC Chair Brendan Carr accused Kimmel of mischaracterizing the gunman’s political motives, prompting an unusual public clash. Carr will testify before the Senate Commerce Committee on Dec. 17, after lawmakers criticized him for pressuring broadcasters to remove the show.
ABC and Disney have not commented on the renewed contract, but the source said both sides remained committed to keeping Kimmel in the late-night slot.
