Show summary Hide summary
- What insiders say about the show’s future and contract status
- Network response: ABC calls reports premature
- Why Kimmel’s contract approach matters
- Rosie O’Donnell’s recent guest-hosting and ratings boost
- Controversies and whether politics played a role
- New Disney leadership and corporate cost-cutting
- Legal disputes and FCC scrutiny
- The changing late-night TV landscape
After two decades as a staple of network late-night, Jimmy Kimmel’s long run may be drawing to a close. Sources tell Page Six that ABC will not renew Kimmel’s contract beyond the coming season, which is scheduled to start this week and would wrap in May 2027 — closing out roughly 24 years of the show.
What insiders say about the show’s future and contract status
The Shards finale: episode 9 start time and how to stream
Diary of a Wimpy Kid star sparks OnlyFans pleas after posting thirst trap 16 years later
People close to the situation say ABC has elected not to extend Kimmel’s deal. That decision would make the upcoming season his last as host of the late-night series.
- The next season is slated to finish in May 2027, marking the end of a multi-decade run that began in 2003.
- Sources describe the move as administrative and contractual rather than a sudden creative choice.
Network response: ABC calls reports premature
ABC’s official line contradicts the leak. A spokesperson told reporters the available information is inaccurate and that talk about the program’s future is speculative at this moment.
ABC has not confirmed a formal decision to end the show, according to that statement.
Why Kimmel’s contract approach matters
Kimmel is known for signing short-term, year-by-year deals. That model gives him flexibility few hosts enjoy.
- Yearly contracts are uncommon in television.
- They let Kimmel test options and remain agile amid industry shifts.
Rosie O’Donnell’s recent guest-hosting and ratings boost
Last month, Rosie O’Donnell filled in for several nights and drew strong viewer numbers. Insiders say her stint was energetic and widely discussed on social platforms.
She grabbed headlines with a parody of an Irish tune that targeted former President Donald Trump. That segment went viral and added to the buzz around the show.
Controversies and whether politics played a role
Some observers wondered if political friction influenced the alleged decision. Sources argue it likely did not.
Tension with the Trump camp
Kimmel has had a highly publicized feud with Donald Trump. Earlier this year he made a joke about Melania Trump that prompted a fierce backlash from the former president.
Network discipline and past suspensions
Following remarks tied to another high-profile incident, Kimmel was temporarily taken off the air under prior Disney leadership. That move showed the company will sometimes act when controversy escalates.
Insiders say the company’s latest leaders are not simply bowing to political pressure.
New Disney leadership and corporate cost-cutting
Disney’s recent management changes could be a major factor behind programming shifts at ABC. Josh D’Amaro, who now oversees parts of Disney’s operations, has been associated with restructuring and early retirement offers for senior staff.
- Executives say cost reductions are on the table across divisions.
- Some sources believe financial pressure, not politics, helps explain decisions about expensive talent deals.
Legal disputes and FCC scrutiny
Shortly after O’Donnell’s guest-hosting run, ABC and Disney filed a lawsuit challenging the FCC’s decision to move up a review of ABC’s broadcast licenses. The companies framed the move as an attack on editorial freedom.
The suit adds another layer to an already tense period between broadcasters and regulators.
The changing late-night TV landscape
Network late night has seen notable shakeups recently. CBS ended its long-running Late Show with Stephen Colbert in May, leaving the genre in flux.
Producers and networks are reassessing costs, formats, and host contracts as streaming and cable pressures reshape viewer habits.
