ABC Disputes Report That Kimmel's Late-Night Show Will End in 2027

Key points

• ABC Entertainment spokesperson stated that reports of the show ending are 'inaccurate' and 'purely speculative.'
• Page Six reported that the 2026-2027 season will be the final one, citing sources that Kimmel's contract is not being extended.
• Kimmel's contract currently runs through May 2027, and the show is set to begin its 25th season with guests Andrew Garfield and Joey King.
• Insiders suggest the potential cancellation is driven by Disney's cost-cutting measures under new CEO Josh D'Amaro, not political pressure from the Trump administration.
• The controversy follows a successful guest-hosting run by Rosie O'Donnell, who delivered viral monologues mocking President Trump.

Background

This dispute follows a turbulent period for the show, including a temporary suspension in September 2025 after Kimmel's monologue regarding Charlie Kirk's death drew criticism from FCC Chair Brendan Carr. Kimmel returned to air in late September 2025 and recently utilized a highlights reel of Trump's criticisms to campaign for Emmy Awards. The current news cycle also follows a successful guest-hosting stint by Rosie O'Donnell, who delivered viral monologues mocking the president during Kimmel's summer break.

How outlets are covering it

Page Six and The Independent reported that the show is set to end after the 2026-2027 season, citing sources that Kimmel's contract is not being extended. USA Today and The Independent highlighted ABC's official denial, with a spokesperson calling the reports 'inaccurate' and 'purely speculative.' Page Six noted that the decision may be linked to Disney's cost-cutting efforts under new CEO Josh D'Amaro rather than political pressure, while USA Today emphasized that Kimmel's contract runs through May 2027 and the 25th season will proceed as planned.

Why it matters

The potential end of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' would mark the conclusion of a 24-year run for one of the longest-serving late-night hosts in US television history. The dispute highlights the tension between political pressure, corporate cost-cutting, and the future of traditional late-night formats in a shifting media landscape.

What to watch

The show is scheduled to begin its 25th season with appearances from Andrew Garfield and Joey King. The Emmy Awards are set to air on September 14, where 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' is up for six trophies. ABC has not provided a timeline for any future contract negotiations or announcements regarding the show's long-term future.