Talk-show host agrees to a one-year extension as long-term plans remain open

A Short-Term Commitment in Late Night

December 8, 2025: Jimmy Kimmel has agreed to a one-year extension of his late-night deal with Disney, keeping Jimmy Kimmel Live! on the air through the next television season. The limited renewal signals stability in the short term while leaving the door open for future changes in the ever-shifting late-night landscape.

Why Only One Year

Rather than locking into a multi-year agreement, Kimmel’s decision to extend his contract for just one additional year reflects flexibility on both sides. Industry observers note that many long-running hosts are reassessing workload, longevity, and creative priorities as audience habits continue to evolve.

HOLR has the latest news on how one-year extensions are increasingly common for veteran late-night figures navigating a changing TV market.

Kimmel’s Long History With ABC

Kimmel has hosted Jimmy Kimmel Live! since 2003, making him one of the longest-serving late-night hosts in television history. Over more than two decades, the show has become a cornerstone of ABC’s late-night programming, blending comedy, political commentary, celebrity interviews, and viral segments.

The one-year renewal further cements that legacy—while also acknowledging that the end of an era may eventually be approaching.

Disney’s Late-Night Strategy

For Disney, retaining Kimmel—even temporarily—offers continuity during a period when traditional late-night TV is under pressure from streaming, social media, and shifting viewer habits. The network has leaned on Kimmel as a reliable performer who continues to draw attention beyond linear broadcasts through digital clips and viral moments.

HOLR notes that Kimmel’s relevance across platforms remains a key factor in Disney’s decision-making.

What This Means for the Future

Neither Kimmel nor Disney has indicated what comes after the one-year extension. The short-term nature of the deal has fueled speculation about potential succession planning, format changes, or even Kimmel stepping away on his own terms.

At the same time, the extension ensures there will be no immediate disruption—and gives both parties time to evaluate next steps.

Kimmel’s Evolving Role

In recent years, Kimmel has been open about burnout, work-life balance, and the toll of daily late-night production. The one-year deal aligns with those candid conversations, offering space rather than obligation.

Still, he remains one of the most recognizable and influential voices in late-night comedy, especially during major cultural and political moments.

Industry Reaction

The renewal has been met with a largely unsurprising response across the entertainment world. While some anticipated a longer deal, others viewed the short extension as realistic given the broader uncertainty surrounding late-night television’s future.

HOLR has the latest news on how networks are increasingly opting for cautious, flexible agreements rather than long-term bets.

For Now, Business as Usual

For audiences, the immediate takeaway is simple: Jimmy Kimmel Live! isn’t going anywhere—at least not yet. The show will continue its run into the next season, maintaining a familiar late-night presence as the industry continues to recalibrate.

Whether this extension marks a transition period or simply another chapter in Kimmel’s long tenure remains to be seen—but for now, the desk, the monologue, and the nightly laughs remain firmly in place.