By Ife kolede
Jimmy Kimmel’s long-running late-night reign will continue—despite a rocky year that saw him briefly taken off the air. The comedian and host of Jimmy Kimmel Live! has signed a fresh one-year extension with ABC, officially locking the show in through May 2027, according to multiple sources familiar with the agreement.
The renewal marks a significant milestone for Kimmel, who has been a major force in late-night television since 2003, but it also arrives after one of the most controversial periods of his career.
A Suspension That Sparked a National Debate
ABC abruptly pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! from broadcast on September 17, following comments Kimmel made about the political fallout surrounding the killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
During a monologue, Kimmel criticized what he described as efforts by “the MAGA gang” to distance themselves from the suspect linked to Kirk’s death. The remark unleashed a storm of backlash, especially among conservative groups, and quickly escalated into a national conversation on political comedy, free speech, and media responsibility.
Disney, parent company of ABC, opted to suspend the show temporarily, saying the network wanted to avoid “further inflaming an already tense environment.”
Kimmel was reinstated less than a week later, returning to the air on September 23, but the controversy lingered.
Behind-the-Scenes Pressure and Backlash
The fallout didn’t end with the suspension. According to Variety, Nexstar Media Group—one of the largest owners of ABC affiliate stations nationwide—considered dropping Jimmy Kimmel Live! from its broadcast lineup entirely. Such a move would have dramatically reduced the show’s reach and advertising footprint.
The dispute became a flashpoint in the ongoing national conversation about satire and political commentary on late-night television. After what ABC called “thoughtful and constructive discussions,” the network reaffirmed its support for Kimmel and brought the show back to its regular schedule.
Kimmel’s Renewal: Quietly Finalized, Strategically Announced
According to Bloomberg, Kimmel informed his staff on Monday that the contract renewal was official. However, insiders revealed the deal had actually been completed several months earlier. ABC reportedly chose to delay the public announcement to avoid overshadowing a separate milestone in the late-night world:
Stephen Colbert, one of Kimmel’s closest industry friends, is wrapping up The Late Show in May 2026.
Both hosts are represented by the same longtime manager, James Dixon, and ABC reportedly wanted to give Colbert’s upcoming departure the spotlight it deserved.
A Veteran of Nearly 25 Years in Late-Night TV
Kimmel’s extension ensures that Jimmy Kimmel Live!—which premiered in January 2003—will continue its run approaching a remarkable quarter-century on air. The program has become a cornerstone of ABC’s late-night slate, blending celebrity interviews, political satire, emotional monologues, and viral comedy bits.
Despite evolving media habits and changing ratings dynamics across the late-night landscape, Kimmel remains one of the format’s most recognizable figures.
Personal Loss Amid Professional Milestones
While his professional future is secure, Kimmel’s year has also been marked by personal tragedy. His best friend and longtime bandleader, Cleto Escobedo III, died last month at age 59. Escobedo, a foundational part of the show since its inception, passed away from cardiogenic shock, according to his death certificate.
Kimmel delivered an emotional tribute on air, calling Escobedo “the heart and soundtrack” of the show.
What Comes Next?
With the new agreement extending Jimmy Kimmel Live! through 2027, ABC has sent a clear message: despite controversies and shifting cultural climates, the network believes Kimmel remains a vital voice in late-night entertainment.
As political tensions rise ahead of the U.S. elections and the media landscape becomes even more polarized, Kimmel’s commentary—often sharp, sometimes divisive—will continue to be a major part of the conversation.
