Trump wants Jimmy Kimmel gone but ABC just extended his contract

Jimmy Kimmel has signed a fresh contract extension with ABC that will keep Jimmy Kimmel Live! on air through the 2026 to 2027 television season, according to Bloomberg.

The late-night host’s previous deal had been set to expire in May, but the new agreement removes any uncertainty over his future with the network.

The extension comes amid continued public criticism from President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly called for Kimmel to be fired. Trump again took aim at the comedian during an appearance at the Kennedy Center Honors this week.

Kimmel has remained one of Trump’s most vocal critics in late-night television. After the president recently referred to him as a “talentless bum” on social media, Kimmel responded on air using Trump’s own words in a pointed retort.

The renewed contract also follows a brief suspension of the host earlier this year after comments made on his show about the alleged shooter of political activist Charlie Kirk.

Despite the backlash and political pressure, ABC’s decision signals continued confidence in Kimmel as one of its leading late-night figures, with the network extending his run for at least another full season beyond his current term.

Aasiya Nazir