ABC Extends Jimmy Kimmel’s Contract Through 2027 Amid Ongoing Controversy

By Ginika Igboke

ABC has renewed late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s contract for an additional year, extending his tenure on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” until at least May 2027. The renewal, announced Monday, comes as Kimmel’s current multiyear deal is set to expire in May 2026. Previous extensions have typically been for multiple years.

The network paused Kimmel’s show in September following backlash over comments he made about the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel claimed “the MAGA gang” was attempting to distance itself from the alleged killer while using the situation for political gain. Station groups Nexstar and Sinclair threatened to stop airing the show, prompting ABC to suspend it.

FCC Chair Brendan Carr later said Kimmel may have misled viewers with his remarks, pointing to the importance of accuracy in public commentary. White House officials denied speculation that the administration exerted pressure on ABC regarding Kimmel’s suspension.

During a visit to the UK, former President Donald Trump said the show had been paused due to poor ratings—not controversy. Kimmel’s first episode after returning drew more than 6 million viewers, according to ABC, though viewership did not remain at that level. Nexstar stations declined to air Kimmel’s program after his reinstatement, citing continued concerns about his comments.

On his Sept. 23 return, Kimmel defended his monologue while acknowledging the sensitivity of the subject. He continued directing humor at Trump, prompting the former president to call on ABC to “get the bum off the air” after Kimmel spent nearly 10 minutes discussing Trump and the late Jeffrey Epstein.

Trump criticized Kimmel again on Sunday while presiding over the Kennedy Center Honors. Days earlier, Kimmel—who has hosted the Oscars four times—mocked Trump’s polling numbers.

ABC has broadcast Kimmel’s show since 2003.

Meanwhile, CBS announced that Stephen Colbert’s late-night program will end in May 2026, citing significant financial losses despite Colbert maintaining the highest ratings among network late-night hosts.