2025 was quite the memorable year for Jimmy Kimmel and his dedicated late night crew, though definitely not always in the most positive ways. Jimmy Kimmel Live! faced a surprising temporary suspension over controversial comments made by the host, and not long after returning to the airwaves, the show’s crew mourned the death of bandleader Cleto Escobedo III. Then, before bowing out for the holidays, the comedian revealed a contract extension keeping the show around until May 2027. But changes are coming.
While fans can still look forward to watching ABC’s lone late-night staple for at least another 17 months, Deadline reports that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will once again be cutting back on the number of musical performances set to take place throughout the year. The total number of musical acts was already at a much-depleted level compared to years past, simply due to there being fewer late night talk shows on broadcast and cable, and it’ll only drop further as the 2026 TV schedule gets going.
