Multiple sources state that Jimmy Kimmel‘s future at ABC was uncertain ahead of his latest suspension controversy. Kimmel’s talk show was recently pulled off-air following his remarks about Charlie Kirk’s shooting. This decision came after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatened to hold ABC and Disney accountable and to revoke their broadcasting licenses.
Jimmy Kimmel’s future at ABC was nearly up before his comments, sources say
Kimmel’s contract is due at the end of this season, expiring in May 2026. Multiple sources told Page Six that his future at ABC was already up even before the suspension controversy occurred. It claimed that ABC could part ways with Kimmel after this season. Also, sources mention that ABC could have taken advantage of the controversy to cancel the show earlier than planned to avoid an extension.
Another source reveals, “Disney chief Bob Iger doesn’t want to be at war with Donald Trump right now, just as he has stabilized Disney. I don’t know what they are planning, but maybe the uproar is so loud Jimmy can’t come back.” A few weeks ago, a different source told the outlet that Kimmel might not have plans to depart yet so that he “can piss Trump off!”
A recent report suggests that Kimmel and his legal representatives are engaged in discussions, hoping to bring the talk show back on air and proceed till the end of the season. At the time of writing, it remains unclear as to what conclusion both parties have reached.
Sinclair, the largest media company, which also owns ABC, recently outlined conditions for Kimmel to fulfill before they lift the suspension in a statement. Firstly, they asked him to be there for “formal discussions” held with ABC “regarding the network’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.” In addition, they asked him to “issue a direct apology to the Kirk family” and make a “meaningful personal donation to the Kirk Family and Turning Point USA.”
According to PEOPLE, in conclusion, it is mentioned that the suspension will not be lifted unless they’re “confident that appropriate steps have been taken to uphold the standards expected of a national broadcast platform.”
