HISTORY IN THE MAKING: Jimmy Kimmel’s Next Act Could Change Late-Night Forever

In the ever-changing landscape of American television, few moments have electrified audiences quite like Jimmy Kimmel’s return to the airwaves after his recent suspension. Standing shoulder to shoulder with Stephen Colbert, Kimmel uttered a single, cryptic line—“My friend, we will make history”—and the internet hasn’t calmed down since. But what seemed at first like a triumphant reunion was, in fact, a declaration of war against the institutions that built their careers. Rumors swirl that Kimmel and Colbert are quietly plotting a bold rebellion, turning their backs on Disney and CBS to build their own media empire. Is this the beginning of comedy’s biggest power shift, or something even bigger?

This article dives deep into the controversy that shook late-night TV, the fallout for Disney and ABC, and the future plans that could redefine the genre.

The Suspension That Shook Late-Night

On September 17, 2025, Jimmy Kimmel Live! was abruptly pulled from the airwaves—a decision that sent shockwaves through the entertainment world. The suspension, which lasted until September 22, was triggered by controversial remarks Kimmel made about the attempted assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The comments drew immediate backlash from conservative groups, media watchdogs, and political figures, including former President Donald Trump, who publicly threatened an FCC investigation into Kimmel and ABC.

The fallout was swift and severe. Local affiliates, particularly those owned by Nexstar and Sinclair, refused to air the show, citing pressure from viewers and advertisers. Disney, ABC’s parent company, made the unprecedented move to suspend the program to “de-escalate tensions,” a decision that would prove costly in more ways than one.

In just six days, Disney+ lost 1.7 million subscribers, and investors threatened legal action, citing Disney’s “mishandled” response. When Kimmel returned on September 23, he drew 6.26 million viewers—his highest ratings in a decade. Yet, within 48 hours, those ratings plummeted by 64% due to ongoing affiliate boycotts.

Kimmel now finds himself at a crossroads, with his future—and the future of late-night television—hanging in the balance.

Kimmel’s Late-Night Legacy

To understand what comes next for Jimmy Kimmel, it’s essential to appreciate where he’s been. Since Jimmy Kimmel Live! premiered in 2003, Kimmel has transformed from underdog comic to late-night titan. His blend of irreverent humor, emotional vulnerability, and sharp political commentary has made him a cultural fixture.

Kimmel’s willingness to tackle serious issues—most notably in segments about his son Billy’s congenital heart defect—has set him apart from his peers. He’s also never shied away from controversy, frequently critiquing Donald Trump and other conservative figures, earning both fans and detractors.

Despite his success, Kimmel has voiced late-night fatigue in recent years. “I’ve been doing this for 20 years, and it’s a grind,” he admitted in a 2023 interview. The demands of the job, the emotional toll of navigating an increasingly polarized environment, and the burnout from the 2023 Hollywood strikes have all weighed heavily on him. The recent suspension may further accelerate his thoughts of stepping back.

Fallout From the Suspension

While Disney framed the suspension as a way to avoid controversy, critics labeled it a capitulation to political pressure. Free speech advocates condemned the move, arguing that it set a dangerous precedent for creative expression. Kimmel, upon his return, didn’t hold back: “Censorship doesn’t fix problems—it buries them,” he declared, signaling his frustration with the network’s decision.

The financial consequences for Disney were immediate and severe. The 1.7 million subscriber drop in a single week shocked Wall Street, and some investors floated potential lawsuits against Disney for mishandling the situation. Affiliate stations in red states continue to boycott the show, further harming its reach and influence.

Sources close to Kimmel say he felt deeply betrayed by Disney’s decision. Yet, his return was marked by defiance, not retreat. The viral moment with Colbert was more than a ratings stunt—it was a shot across the bow, signaling that Kimmel may be ready to take matters into his own hands.

The Colbert Factor: A United Front

The partnership between Jimmy Kimmel and Stephen Colbert adds a fascinating wrinkle to the unfolding drama. Both men have dominated late-night for years, blending comedy with political commentary and cultural critique. Their joint appearance, following Kimmel’s suspension, was no mere coincidence.

Industry insiders suggest that Kimmel and Colbert have been quietly discussing the possibility of launching their own media venture—one that would free them from the constraints of network television and corporate oversight. Such a move would be unprecedented, with the potential to upend the entire late-night ecosystem.

For Disney and CBS, the prospect of losing two of their biggest stars is a nightmare scenario. For audiences, it’s a tantalizing glimpse of what the future of comedy could look like: unfiltered, independent, and fiercely relevant.

Potential Paths Forward

So, what’s next for Jimmy Kimmel? Several scenarios emerge, each with its own risks and rewards:

1. Finish Out Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Kimmel’s contract runs through the 2025-2026 season. Staying the course is the simplest option. Despite controversies, Kimmel remains a draw for viewers and high-profile guests. However, ongoing affiliate boycotts and advertiser skittishness may force ABC to consider restructuring or even finding a new host. Replacing Kimmel could prove risky, given his established brand and loyal following.

2. Hosting the Oscars and Other High-Profile Events

Kimmel has successfully hosted the Academy Awards four times, earning industry respect for his poise under pressure. As the Oscars continue to seek stability, Kimmel could become their go-to emcee. His ease in high-stakes environments makes him a perfect fit for other awards shows or event-based specials, keeping him in the public eye without the grind of nightly television.

3. Transition to Producing

Kimmel has experience producing shows like Crank Yankers and various comedy specials. A shift toward behind-the-scenes roles would give him flexibility without leaving the industry. He could develop shows for networks or streaming platforms, leveraging his creative sensibility and industry connections.

4. Full Retirement or Semi-Retirement

At 57, Kimmel has publicly stated a desire to spend more time with family, especially given his son Billy’s health concerns. He could step back from public-facing roles and focus on writing, mentoring, or family life. With an estimated $50 million net worth, he has the luxury to choose his own path.

5. A Digital Pivot

With late-night TV viewership declining and streaming platforms on the rise, digital media offers fresh opportunities. Kimmel’s viral hits—like “Mean Tweets”—suggest strong appeal on YouTube, Spotify, or Netflix. He could launch a streaming talk show, a podcast, or short-form video content, maintaining creative control and reaching a younger, cord-cutting audience.

6. Building a New Media Empire

The most intriguing possibility is the rumored partnership with Colbert. Together, they could launch an independent media company, leveraging their combined star power to attract top talent, advertisers, and audiences. Such a venture would be risky but could redefine the future of comedy and political satire.

The Bigger Picture: A Shifting Media Landscape

Jimmy Kimmel’s saga reflects broader changes in the media world. Late-night TV is losing its cultural dominance, as audiences migrate to streaming platforms and social media. Political polarization is reshaping entertainment, with performers increasingly forced to choose sides. The Kirk controversy and the FCC’s growing influence over content have made free expression more precarious for artists.

Kimmel’s defiance has become a case study in resilience. His willingness to challenge corporate censorship and political pressure resonates with viewers who crave authenticity in an age of manufactured outrage. The viral moment with Colbert was more than just good television—it was a statement of intent.

It also signals that traditional media must evolve or face irrelevance. The days of network executives dictating content are numbered. The future belongs to creators who can build direct relationships with their audiences, free from gatekeepers and censors.

Conclusion: A New Chapter, Not the End

As of October 1, 2025, Jimmy Kimmel remains on air, but his future is wide open. Whether he finishes his ABC contract, hosts more Oscars, builds a digital empire, or joins forces with Colbert to launch a new media company, Kimmel’s next act will shape the future of late-night television.

For now, he remains a voice of humor, defiance, and empathy—one that millions still want to hear. In a divided country, that’s no small feat.

The stakes are high. The industry is watching. And as Kimmel himself said, “We will make history.” The only question is: what kind of history will it be?