Jimmy Kimmel, long known for turning his late-night platform into a political pulpit, is once again at the center of controversy after remarks targeting former President Donald Trump reportedly sparked backlash within his own network. ABC executives, according to recent reports, are expressing concern that Kimmel’s increasingly partisan rhetoric is not only alienating viewers but also damaging the credibility of a once broadly appealing program. His refusal to temper his commentary has fueled speculation that his future with the network may be in jeopardy.
The situation underscores a growing problem in late-night TV: hosts who have traded broad comedy for political preaching. Once designed to entertain a wide audience, these shows have become echo chambers for progressive talking points, effectively shutting out half the country. ABC’s unease reflects a recognition that catering endlessly to the Left has sharply reduced ratings and profitability. Kimmel’s brand of “resistance comedy” may earn applause in liberal circles, but it has clearly come at a cost commercially.
In a surprising twist, reports suggest Kimmel is considering teaming up with Stephen Colbert, another fiercely partisan figure in the late-night landscape, to launch an independent project outside the control of the networks. If true, such a move would amount to two figures, once staples of mainstream television, effectively admitting that their style no longer meshes with broad public taste. Whether such a partnership would launch successfully or sputter without network backing remains to be seen, but history suggests that politically one-sided entertainment has limited staying power.
For millions of Americans, the larger issue is not whether Kimmel keeps or loses his job—it’s the overwhelming political tilt of Hollywood and mainstream comedy. Late-night TV long ago abandoned the era of Johnny Carson’s broad relatability. Instead, hosts like Kimmel have used their platforms to attack conservatives, mock traditional values, and cheerlead for the Democratic Party. The result is cultural division masquerading as comedy, and viewers are responding by tuning out in droves.
Ultimately, Kimmel’s plight is a cautionary tale for entertainers who mistake strident politics for humor. While the Left applauds his defiance, ordinary Americans are tired of watching late-night television devolve into partisan monologues. If Kimmel does join Colbert on some new independent venture, it may be yet another echo chamber project catering only to a narrow slice of the population. Meanwhile, countless viewers continue to wait for real comedy to return—humor that unites rather than divides.