Molly McNearney, co-head writer for "Jimmy Kimmel Live" and the late-night host's wife, has recalled the early stages of their office romance, detailing a moment that signaled their mutual romantic interest.
McNearney, who is a decade younger than Kimmel, was hired as a writer's assistant for the show in 2004. The couple began dating in October 2009, several months after Kimmel's seven-year relationship with comedian Sarah Silverman ended.
On the "Armchair Expert" podcast, McNearney recounted an instance where Kimmel's cousin, Sal Iacono, asked attendees to list five foods they would eat for the rest of their lives. McNearney listed pizza, crab claws, BLT sandwiches, and chocolate chip cookies. Approximately six months later, when McNearney visited Kimmel's home, he had prepared all five of her favorite foods.
When host Dax Shepard asked if she recognized this gesture as a romantic advance, McNearney responded affirmatively, stating, "Yes, yes! It made me very excited and very nervous!" She also recalled her apprehension, thinking, "Oh, no. This is a bad idea."
Kimmel, who was present during the podcast recording, interjected that he did not share her reservations. McNearney commented on this difference, noting, "The person in power usually doesn't." She expressed her nervousness about the relationship, fearing it was a "terrible idea" and that while Kimmel's life might not change significantly, hers would.
For the first few months of their relationship, McNearney and Kimmel kept it "very, very quiet," largely due to her concerns about how it might affect the predominantly male work environment. She worried about the professional and personal implications, especially as she had worked hard to establish her career.
McNearney and Kimmel have been married for 13 years and have two children together: a daughter, Jane, and a son, Billy. McNearney is also a stepmother to Kimmel's two adult children from his previous marriage. Kimmel is currently on his annual summer vacation and is scheduled to return to hosting "Jimmy Kimmel Live" on September 8. Singer Jelly Roll is guest-hosting the show during Kimmel's absence.