Jimmy Kimmel Sounds Alarm On Late-Night TV's Future With Stark Warning

Jimmy Kimmel sounds an alarm about the fate of late-night TV as Stephen Colbert's exit underscores the genre's upheaval. The piece notes Colbert's final episode after CBS reportedly urged a five-year contract in 2023, only to pull the plug two years later, citing a financial loss of about $40 million annually. It also recalls ABC's September suspension of Kimmel's show following his remarks about President Donald Trump's reaction to Charlie Kirk's assassination; the program returned within a week. Kimmel's contract with ABC is believed to run through May 2027, leaving open whether he will renegotiate or retire.

Despite the turbulence, Kimmel argues late-night remains robust when online views are combined with traditional ratings, dismissing claims of a dying format as 'silly.' He cites rising audiences for him and his peers online, alongside steady linear numbers, to counter the narrative of decline. He says he would avoid a dramatic, glory-seeking exit and prefers responsible choices that keep options opened. Beyond his own future, the report notes upcoming guests this week on Jimmy Kimmel Live!: Kevin Hart, Draymond Green and Johnny Knoxville, with the show continuing at 11:35 p.m. ET on ABC.