Jimmy Kimmel in Talks to Renew Late-Night Show at ABC

Key Points:

• Jimmy Kimmel and Disney’s ABC are negotiating whether he will continue hosting "Jimmy Kimmel Live" beyond the 2026-2027 season, amid a challenging late-night TV landscape marked by declining ad revenues and shifting viewer demographics.
• Kimmel shifted to a one-year contract in 2025, reflecting both his long tenure and the uncertain economics of late-night television, where ad spending has dropped from $519.7 million in 2017 to $209 million in 2025.
• Despite lower overall ad spending, "Jimmy Kimmel Live" has seen a ratings boost since CBS canceled Stephen Colbert’s show, potentially allowing Kimmel to command higher ad rates, though his political commentary has drawn scrutiny from the White House and FCC.
• Disney is currently involved in legal disputes with the FCC over First Amendment issues related to ABC’s programming, and the company may seek cost-cutting or expanded roles for Kimmel, similar to NBC’s approach with Jimmy Fallon.
• With contracts for many late-night hosts expiring soon, Kimmel’s willingness to sign a short-term deal could keep him on air through the next presidential election, after which political pressures on his show might lessen.