Howard Stern Warns ABC of Repercussions If Jimmy Kimmel Show Faces Trouble
The radio host defended Kimmel, citing his loyalty to the network and urging ABC to consider his contributions.
Radio host Howard Stern publicly cautioned ABC on Tuesday, stating the network would face significant backlash if any issues arise with "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" Stern, appearing as a guest on the show, emphasized Kimmel's long-standing commitment to the network and urged ABC to recognize his value.
"There is no man more loyal to this company than this guy," Stern told the audience. He recalled Kimmel's consistent participation in ABC's annual advertiser events, known as the upfronts, highlighting the late-night host's role in attracting business for the network. "He has done everything for the company. And I hope that they keep that in mind," Stern added. "Oh my God. I don't know about you, but if something goes wrong, oh, is ABC going to have hell to pay."
ABC did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding Stern's remarks. Earlier in the month, a spokesperson for ABC dismissed reports from Page Six suggesting that Kimmel's contract would not be renewed, labeling such claims as "speculative."
Christian Toto, founder of Hollywood in Toto, offered a different perspective, suggesting that Stern's defense of Kimmel might be misplaced. Toto commented that the network might be facing financial pressures to keep "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" on the air, alluding to potential significant costs for ABC. "That explains why the network needs a drastic budget reduction to keep ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ on the air," Toto stated. "If CBS was losing $40 million a year to keep Stephen Colbert employed, imagine what ABC must swallow to appease Kimmel."
This discussion follows a period of scrutiny for Kimmel's show. In September 2025, "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" was briefly taken off the air after the host made remarks about Charlie Kirk's assassin. Upon his return, Kimmel referenced the suspension and made jabs at Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair Brendan Carr, noting the show's 4,000th episode and asserting their continued presence despite challenges.
In a more recent broadcast, Kimmel interviewed New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The conversation touched on Mamdani's relationship with former President Donald Trump, with Kimmel probing the nature of their interactions. Mamdani largely deflected the questions, focusing instead on his housing development initiatives in Sunnyside Yard. When Kimmel suggested Mamdani might be useful in Washington, the mayor humorously responded, "I love you, but I love housing more."