Jimmy Kimmel's Future at Disney Hangs in Balance Amidst Report of Fractured Relationship
Sources suggest a strained dynamic between the late-night host and Disney/ABC, contributing to uncertainty about the continuation of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!'
The future of Jimmy Kimmel's long-running late-night show on ABC is uncertain, reportedly due to a strained relationship between the host and the Disney-owned network. Kimmel, who has hosted "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" for 25 seasons, is expected to conclude his tenure with the show later this year, according to reports.
Sources close to the situation suggest that Kimmel has not always been an easy collaborator, with one insider stating he has "never played well in the sandbox." This alleged difficulty has reportedly manifested in his reluctance to appear on other ABC programs, such as "Good Morning America" and "The View," to promote his show. Insiders claim Kimmel views such appearances as being a "shill" and has been uncooperative when he has participated, with one source describing him as an "a--hole" in these instances.
Further complicating the relationship, sources indicate that Kimmel seldom invited talent from New York to appear on his show when it has broadcast from Brooklyn. He also reportedly roasted Disney executives at an upfront presentation in May, an event described as "uncomfortable."
However, other sources dispute the narrative of Kimmel being uncooperative. They point to instances of him promoting ABC programming, including 66 "synergy guests" since October of the previous year, his appearances on "GMA" and "Live with Kelly and Mark," and his hosting duties for the Oscars, which airs on ABC. These individuals assert that Kimmel has been a "team player" throughout his 25 seasons.
The report also touches on Kimmel's past antagonistic relationship with former President Donald Trump, which led to his temporary removal from airwaves. An industry insider suggested that Kimmel felt unprotected by the network during that period and that the recent cancellation of "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" on CBS might have paved the way for ABC to also end Kimmel's show.
Despite reports that Kimmel's contract would not be extended beyond 2027, a spokesperson for Kimmel and ABC Entertainment has previously called such information "inaccurate." When addressing the future of the show, Disney president Dana Walden stated the company is "trying to make sense of the business while also honoring a deep partnership" with Kimmel, indicating ongoing discussions about his future and what aligns with both Kimmel's desires and the network's business interests.