Jimmy Kimmel Challenges Trump to Talent Showdown, Discusses New Contract!

Jimmy Kimmel has confirmed he will keep hosting his popular late-night show on ABC for at least another year, humorously adding that he will stay “until the world ends—whichever happens first.”

Today, it was announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will continue airing through May 2027, following Kimmel’s recent decision to extend his contract.

On tonight’s broadcast, Kimmel light-heartedly mentioned he didn’t want to provoke President Trump during such a delicate period, but he had some news to share. “Tonight, I have more entertainment news. I’ve chosen to renew my contract with ABC for another year,” he announced. “Our program will keep airing until May of 2027. Or until the world ends—whichever comes first.” He continued, “After much deliberation, I’ve decided I want to spend less time with my family. So to everyone watching here and at home, I’m deeply honored and grateful to be a part of your daily lives, whether it’s during your nightly wind-down or your morning bathroom break.”

Kimmel went on to express his gratitude towards his team, and then humorously called out his co-host Guillermo Rodriguez for abandoning him at a recent holiday karaoke event.

The host also addressed recent criticisms from President Trump, who labeled Kimmel a “terrible” master of ceremonies for the Kennedy Center Honors—a role Kimmel revealed he has never filled. “Donald Trump claimed he was the host, bragging that we’ve never had a President host the Kennedy Center Honors before,” Kimmel remarked. “And why do you think that is? It’s also true we’ve never seen Neil Patrick Harris command a military strike on a fishing vessel.”

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Kimmel jokingly added, “I’m beginning to suspect he has a crush on me. How about we settle this with a talent showdown? I’ll crack some jokes, sketch a little, and play my clarinet. He can hit the golf course, chase after a porn star, and wreck the country.”