Jimmy Kimmel will continue to host Jimmy Kimmel Live! through 2027 after signing a one-year extension with Disney’s ABC Network. This deal was confirmed by The Guardian and originally reported by Bloomberg. Kimmel’s contract was set to end in May 2026, but both parties agreed to extend it some time ago, waiting to announce the news out of respect for Stephen Colbert, whose show was recently canceled.
Colbert’s show, The Late Show, will finish airing in May 2026. This announcement comes in the wake of some tension earlier this year. Kimmel’s show was paused due to pressure from major affiliates like Nexstar and Sinclair, along with scrutiny from the Federal Communications Commission. This was after Kimmel spoke out on the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, attributing political exploitation to Donald Trump’s camp.
Kimmel’s suspension stirred a debate about free speech in the media landscape. The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression criticized the situation, warning that it reflected a troubling trend of media outlets succumbing to pressure. They argued that late-night hosts should not have to navigate fear of repercussions for their opinions in a democratic society.
Interestingly, Kimmel’s case highlights a broader issue in entertainment. According to a 2023 survey by the Pew Research Center, about 53% of Americans believe that media outlets are often influenced by political pressure. This perception can affect viewer trust and engagement with media content.
Kimmel’s enduring presence on television also shows how late-night formats continue to adapt and evolve in response to political climates and viewer expectations. As media continues to shift, rising stars in the late-night scene will likely bring different perspectives, possibly changing how late-night television is viewed over the next few years.
For more detail on media bias and political influence, you can read more at Pew Research Center.
