Jimmy Kimmel’s long-running late-night career is set to continue, as ABC has granted the host a one-year contract extension that will keep Jimmy Kimmel Live! on air until May 2027.
The move comes months after the 58-year-old was suddenly taken off the air on September 17, following backlash over comments he made regarding the assassination of American political commentator Charlie Kirk. Kimmel had stated that “the MAGA gang” was attempting to portray the suspect “as anything other than one of them,” a remark that generated widespread outrage. In response, Disney — ABC’s parent company — temporarily suspended the show “to avoid further inflaming a tense situation.”
Jimmy Kimmel returned to television on September 23.
Kirk, a prominent right-wing personality, was shot and killed on September 10 while speaking at a Turning Point USA debate event at Utah Valley University.
According to Bloomberg, Jimmy Kimmel informed his team on Monday about the newly finalized deal, though both he and ABC reportedly reached an agreement months ago. The public announcement was delayed out of respect for Stephen Colbert, whose Late Show is scheduled to end in May 2026. Kimmel and Colbert are close friends and share the same manager, James Dixon.
Kimmel’s suspension sparked nationwide debate. Variety reported that Nexstar Media — which operates numerous ABC affiliate stations — threatened to pull Jimmy Kimmel Live! from its programming, escalating the situation into a wider discussion on free speech, political satire, and the boundaries of late-night comedy. ABC reinstated the show following “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel.
Jimmy Kimmel Live! has remained a major force in late-night television since its debut in January 2003, nearing its 25-year mark on air.
The announcement also comes during a difficult time for Kimmel personally. His longtime friend and bandleader, Cleto Escobedo III, passed away last month at age 59. His death certificate cited cardiogenic shock as the cause.
