Jimmy Kimmel has secured another year on ABC after signing a contract extension that will keep Jimmy Kimmel Live! on the air through the 2026–27 television season. His previous contract was set to expire in May 2026, but the new deal ensures that the network’s longest-running late-night host will remain on screen at least until the end of that period.
The extension comes after a turbulent few months for Kimmel and the network. In September, ABC briefly suspended him following remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, which prompted political backlash and complaints from major affiliates, including Sinclair and Nexstar. The controversy raised questions about his future, and Kimmel himself admitted he believed that his time on ABC was finished. However, when the show returned, it posted high viewership numbers, strengthening his position and ultimately contributing to the network’s decision to retain him.
Kimmel and Disney reportedly reached the agreement months ago, but chose to delay the announcement out of respect for Stephen Colbert. CBS had already confirmed that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would end in May 2026, and Kimmel did not want to overshadow the news surrounding his friend and fellow late-night host. Despite the tensions of recent months, ABC indicated support for Kimmel and dismissed President Trump’s public call to “get the bum off the air.”
Reflecting on his tendency to reverse course after previously hinting at retirement, Kimmel joked that he has said “this is going to be my last one” multiple times while renewing contracts anyway. Because staff and fans reacted strongly whenever he made such claims, he now avoids commenting on whether the newest extension will actually be his last.
The one-year addition gives ABC the option to extend the partnership again in 2027 if ratings momentum continues. Meanwhile, Kimmel has intensified political humour during his nightly monologues, especially toward Trump, coinciding with a noticeable uptick in viewership. His ongoing presence on late-night TV strengthens ABC’s entertainment roster as Jimmy Kimmel Live! continues into its 24th season.
Outside of his talk show, Kimmel remains one of ABC’s most visible figures. He has hosted the Academy Awards multiple times and is currently the host of the network’s revival of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The extension represents stability for ABC at a moment of increasing late-night competition and continued political tension surrounding broadcast comedy.
