ABC Says Jimmy Kimmel Live! Won’t End in 2027, Calls Reports ‘Inaccurate’

ABC has dismissed reports that “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” would conclude its run in 2027, labeling such claims “inaccurate” and emphasizing that discussions about the program’s future remain “purely speculative.”

The statement followed reports indicating the upcoming 24th season of the show would be its final iteration, citing an alleged source that Kimmel’s contract would not extend beyond May 2027. ABC’s denial does not signal a new contract for Kimmel beyond his current arrangement, which was extended by one year in 2025 and runs through May 2027.

Kimmel, who has hosted the show since 2003 and is now in his 24th season, has become one of President Donald Trump’s most outspoken critics on late-night television. He frequently devotes segments of his opening monologues to attacking Trump and his administration, as well as criticizing the president’s approach to issues including immigration, foreign policy, and other administration priorities.

Trump has repeatedly called for Kimmel’s removal from the air, urging networks to fire him. This tension intensified in September 2025 when ABC temporarily suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” following Kimmel’s remarks about the killing of conservative leader Charlie Kirk during a monologue. The suspension followed pressure from conservative critics and a decision by major ABC affiliate owner Nexstar to stop airing the program.

After Kimmel returned to the show, the incident sparked a major free-speech controversy. Supporters argued that ABC had bowed to political pressure, while critics contended his comments about Kirk were inappropriate.

The conflict has continued this year as Trump has urged ABC to fire Kimmel, and the Federal Communications Commission has launched an early review of broadcast licenses for eight Disney-owned ABC stations. Disney has sued to block the FCC action, claiming it amounts to retaliation for editorial decisions.

Reports suggested that any potential end to Kimmel’s show would relate to broader cost-cutting and restructuring efforts at ABC and Disney, rather than political pressures stemming from his clashes with Trump. ABC has not confirmed this explanation or announced a series conclusion.

Kimmel acknowledged the shorter contract term reflects uncertainty in the television business. He and his wife, Molly McNearney, an executive producer of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, have also discussed the possibility of him eventually retiring from late-night television.

For now, Kimmel is returning Tuesday for the show’s 24th season following its summer break, with ABC maintaining that reports of a 2027 finale remain speculative.