ABC denied reports that Jimmy Kimmel Live!
will end in 2027, calling claims about the show’s future purely speculative.
The network responded to a Page Six report citing unnamed sources who said Kimmel’s contract would not be renewed, while the host’s team emphasized his deal extends through May 2027.
ABC has categorically denied rumors that Jimmy Kimmel Live!
will end after next season, labeling the speculation “inaccurate” and purely speculative.
The network’s response comes days after Page Six reported that Kimmel’s contract would not be extended beyond its current term, which expires in May 2027. The 58-year-old host, who has led the late-night show since 2003, has famously taken pride in signing year-to-year deals, a rarity in television, granting him unusual flexibility.
ABC’s Denial Contradicts Page Six Report on Kimmel’s Exit
The controversy began when Page Six published a report on September 8, 2026, citing sources who claimed Kimmel’s contract would not be renewed, marking the season as its final chapter. ABC swiftly countered, with a spokesperson stating, This information is inaccurate – any reports about the future of the show at this point are purely speculative.
The network’s denial came hours before the show returns for its 25th season, which featured guest appearances from actors Andrew Garfield and Joey King.
Kimmel extended his deal with Disney to host ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live!
in December 2025, bringing his contract through May 2027. This agreement followed a contentious period in 2025 when ABC temporarily suspended the show after Kimmel’s remarks about the killing of Charlie Kirk.
Kimmel’s Contract Flexibility and Political Tensions
Kimmel’s year-to-year contracts have allowed him to navigate a career marked by both acclaim and controversy. His relationship with the Trump administration has been particularly fraught, including an incident where he was embroiled in a nasty feud with President Trump after he quipped that first lady Melania Trump had a glow like an expectant widow, days before a third assassination attempt on the president.
The FCC’s actions, which coincided with Kimmel’s suspension, were framed by ABC as a political move.
Broader Industry Shifts and Cost-Cutting Measures
While ABC has denied the show’s end, some reports suggest broader restructuring at Disney and ABC could influence the decision. Page Six cited sources indicating that cost reductions may have played a factor in their decision to part ways with Kimmel, though ABC’s statement did not address these factors. The network’s recent moves include D’Amaro reportedly offering veteran execs at the company early retirement packages as part of restructuring and cost-cutting across the company, a trend that has raised questions about potential changes to high-profile programming.
However, ABC has not confirmed any such plans for Jimmy Kimmel Live! The network’s spokesperson reiterated that any reports about the future of the show at this point are purely speculative, leaving the show’s fate in limbo as Kimmel prepares for his 25th season.
What Comes Next for Kimmel and His Show?
The uncertainty surrounding Jimmy Kimmel Live!
raises questions about the comedian’s long-term plans. Kimmel has previously hinted at stepping away from late-night television, stating in early 2024, I think this is my final contract,
though viewers might laugh at that statement because every time he announces his impending exit, it turns out not to be the case.
The show’s future remains unclear, but ABC’s denial suggests the network is not ready to confirm an end date. As Kimmel prepares for his 25th season, the question lingers: will the show survive beyond 2027, or will this be the final chapter in its 24-year run?
