Disney(US:DIS) New York Post·2025-12-08 22:22Core Viewpoint - ABC has extended Jimmy Kimmel's show for at least one year, continuing until at least May 2027, despite Kimmel's recent suspension due to controversial comments [1][4]. Group 1: Contract and Renewal - The agreement to extend Kimmel's show was reached months ago, but the announcement was delayed out of respect for Stephen Colbert, whose show is set to end in May 2026 [3]. - Kimmel's current contract was set to expire in May 2026, and the new deal ensures the show will air until at least May 2027 [1]. Group 2: Controversy and Suspension - Kimmel faced backlash for comments regarding Charlie Kirk's assassination, leading to his suspension in September [4]. - The suspension occurred shortly after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr issued a warning to ABC and Disney [5]. - Following the suspension, Kimmel returned to air and stated it was not his intention to make light of the murder, although he did not apologize for his remarks [7]. Group 3: Audience and Ratings - After his suspension was lifted, Kimmel achieved his largest regular late-night audience, averaging about 1.9 million viewers per night in the third quarter, ranking second among major late-night shows [7]. - Despite high online viewership, Kimmel's show, like others in the late-night segment, has been losing traditional TV viewers [11]. Group 4: Industry Context - Kimmel has been a significant figure at ABC since 2003, regularly participating in network events and hosting the Oscars [10]. - The late-night television landscape is facing challenges as shows struggle to maintain viewership against competition from social media [11].