Jimmy Kimmel Throws Down the Gauntlet: Challenges Trump to a Talent Showdown & Drops Bombshell on New ABC Deal
Jimmy Kimmel, the irreverent host of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, is set to remain a fixture on late-night television for at least another year, thanks to a freshly inked contract extension with ABC. The news, announced during his Monday, December 8, episode, was met with enthusiasm from both his studio audience and fans at home.
Staying Power in Late Night
Kimmel, 58, quipped about the show’s longevity, joking that it would continue “until May 2027 — or until the world ends, whichever comes first.” With characteristic humor, he added, “I thought about it, I gave it a lot of thought, and decided I would like to spend less time with my family.” He went on to express gratitude to his viewers: “I’m honored and humbled to be part of your routine, whether it’s in bed at night or during your morning toilet time. It means a lot to me to have your attention.”
Trading Barbs with Trump
The episode also saw Kimmel respond to recent criticism from President Donald Trump, who called him a “horrible” host and claimed he would do a better job fronting the Kennedy Center Honors. Trump, 79, even suggested that beating Kimmel in terms of talent was a prerequisite for his own presidential ambitions.
Kimmel, never one to shy away from a challenge, replied: “I don’t think I’ve ever agreed with anything more than that.” He then upped the ante, proposing a direct showdown: “As far as this whole ‘who has more talent’ thing goes, it seems like he’s challenging me to a contest? If so, I’m open to it. Let’s do it. Let’s have a talent competition.”
Navigating Controversy and Suspension
Kimmel’s contract renewal comes after a turbulent period in September, when he was briefly suspended following remarks about the fatal shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel criticized efforts by the “MAGA Gang” to politicize the tragedy, and lampooned Trump for his response to Kirk’s death, likening it to a child mourning a goldfish.
The comments sparked backlash from conservative circles, including Federal Communications Commission chairman Brendan Carr, who called for Kimmel’s suspension and urged ABC affiliates to drop the show. Media companies Sinclair and Nexstar preempted Jimmy Kimmel Live! on their ABC stations, further fueling the controversy.
After a six-day suspension, Kimmel returned to the airwaves, thanking supporters for their vocal defense. “You supported our show, cared enough to do something about it to make your voices heard so that mine could be heard and I will never forget it,” he said. “It takes courage to speak out against this administration and they did and they deserve credit for it and thanks, For telling their followers that our government cannot control what we do and do not say and TV.”
Looking Ahead
With his contract extended and his trademark wit undiminished, Jimmy Kimmel is poised to continue challenging political figures, entertaining audiences, and pushing boundaries in late-night television. Whether a talent competition with Trump materializes remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Kimmel is not backing down from controversy or comedy anytime soon.
