A Short Extension Amid Turbulence
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has agreed to a one-year contract extension with The Walt Disney Company, keeping his show Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC through at least May 2027 — delaying the previously planned May 2026 end date.
Though modest in length, the renewal offers a measure of stability for Kimmel and his team during a volatile period for late-night television. According to people familiar with the negotiations, the pact had actually been agreed upon months ago — but the official announcement was postponed out of deference to fellow late-night host Stephen Colbert, whose own show ends in May 2026.
Return After Suspension and Public Controversy
The extension arrives just a few months after ABC temporarily pulled “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” off the air in September. The suspension stemmed from comments Kimmel made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk — remarks that were widely criticized and led to pressure from major affiliates and the Federal Communications Commission.
Following six days off-air, the show returned — though some affiliates initially refused to broadcast the episodes. Despite the backlash, Kimmel’s return was marked by renewed support from many in the entertainment industry who defended his right to free speech.
ABC’s Bet — And What It Means for Late Night
By extending Kimmel’s contract, Disney and ABC appear to be signalling that they still view him as a valuable — if controversial — fixture in their late-night lineup. At 58, Kimmel has hosted “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” since 2003; in that time, he has also hosted the Oscars multiple times and is the face of the rebooted game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?.
While the one-year term is shorter than traditional multi-year deals, insiders speculate it gives ABC flexibility — and gives Kimmel a chance to test the waters before green-lighting a longer commitment. Given the recent turbulence in late-night TV — including Colbert’s impending exit — the decision may reflect broader uncertainty over viewer habits, affiliate relationships, and political pressures.
What Comes Next
With the renewed contract, fans of late-night comedy can expect Kimmel back behind his desk through the 2026–2027 television season. Meanwhile, both supporters and critics will be watching to see whether this “bridge” extension leads to a longer-term deal — or if it marks the beginning of a gradual wind-down for one of the most enduring late-night shows on broadcast television.
