A member of Jimmy Kimmel’s staff cast doubt on the late-night host’s future, saying they “can’t imagine a scenario” in which Jimmy Kimmel Live! comes back after its abrupt removal from ABC this week.
What Happened
Disney suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Wednesday following Kimmel’s on-air remarks about the man accused of assassinating Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The decision sparked backlash and fueled speculation about the show’s fate.
Staffer Speaks Out
In an interview with Rick Ellis for his Too Much TV newsletter, one longtime staffer admitted they were not surprised by the network’s move.
“I want to think it will [return]. But I can’t imagine a scenario in which that happens,” the staffer said. “Even if Jimmy was willing to publicly apologize and donate money to whatever ghoulish conservative group that is demanding it … MAGA people will never be happy. It will never be enough.”
The staffer added that Disney might opt to buy out Kimmel’s contract and fill the late-night slot with cheaper reruns of Modern Family or Judge Judy.
Kimmel’s Comments
On Monday’s show, Kimmel criticized conservatives’ reaction to Kirk’s killing, saying:
“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”
Those remarks reportedly triggered a wave of complaints and mounting pressure on ABC and parent company Disney.
Network Culture and Criticism
The staffer accused executives of prioritizing profits over employees:
“It was becoming increasingly clear in recent weeks that Sir Iger and the ABC executives would cut us loose in a second if they thought something we did might hurt attendance at Disney World or cost anyone their annual bonus.”
They also said the team had grown accustomed to the constant tension, calling themselves “a running stop away from unemployment.”
What Happens Next
Disney has not commented publicly on the show’s future. Insiders suggest executives are weighing whether to reinstate Kimmel or permanently end the long-running late-night program. Meanwhile, staff members remain uncertain about their jobs as the controversy unfolds.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
