Jimmy Kimmel Biography and Return to ABC – Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Jimmy Kimmel is a celebrated American television host, comedian, writer, and producer. Best known for hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC since 2003, he has become a central figure in late-night television, blending humor, celebrity culture, and political commentary.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

James Christian Kimmel was born in Brooklyn, New York. At age nine, his family relocated to Las Vegas, where his passion for broadcasting took root.

Inspired by David Letterman, he began working in radio during high school, holding jobs in Seattle, Tucson, Phoenix, and Palm Springs. His big break came in Los Angeles as “Jimmy the Sports Guy” on KROQ-FM’s popular morning show.

Transition to Television

Kimmel’s television career accelerated in the late 1990s. He co-hosted Comedy Central’s Win Ben Stein’s Money, where his quick wit and relatability earned him an Emmy Award alongside Ben Stein.

He later co-hosted The Man Show (1999–2003), which catered to a young male audience and showcased his irreverent humor.

These projects gave Kimmel national recognition and prepared him for the leap to late-night television.

Rise to Late-Night Prominence

In 2003, Kimmel launched Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC. Initially slow to gain traction, the show evolved into a late-night staple with celebrity interviews, viral comedy bits, and politically charged monologues.

Over time, it became ABC’s flagship late-night program, competing with giants like Jay Leno, David Letterman, and Stephen Colbert.

Beyond hosting, Kimmel produced shows such as Crank Yankers and The Andy Milonakis Show, voiced animated characters, and established himself as a go-to host for major events.

He has hosted the Academy Awards four times (2016–2018, 2024) and the Primetime Emmys on multiple occasions.

Personal Life and Advocacy

In 2013, Kimmel married producer Molly McNearney, with whom he has two children. He also has two older children from his previous marriage.

In 2017, Kimmel’s newborn son was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, inspiring him to speak out passionately for healthcare reform.

Since then, his monologues have often addressed social and political issues, from immigration to gun control. His willingness to blend comedy with advocacy has earned both praise and criticism.

The Charlie Kirk Controversy

On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a university event in Utah. The suspect, Tyler Robinson, later admitted his motive stemmed from opposition to Kirk’s views on LGBTQ+ issues.

In the days following, Kimmel used Jimmy Kimmel Live! to condemn the violence but also criticized conservatives, including Vice President JD Vance and Donald Trump, for what he described as exploiting the tragedy.

His sharp monologues accused the “MAGA gang” of political opportunism, sparking immediate backlash.

Conservatives condemned his remarks as insensitive and misleading. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr labeled the comments “truly sick,” while major affiliate groups threatened consequences for ABC.

Suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live!

The backlash escalated quickly. Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, two of ABC’s largest affiliate owners, pulled the show from their schedules.

On September 18, 2025, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely, citing mounting controversy and affiliate pressure.

While ratings struggles were noted, the suspension was widely viewed as a direct response to Kimmel’s remarks about Kirk. Production halted mid-season, though Kimmel himself was not terminated.

Industry and Public Reaction

The suspension ignited fierce debate about free speech, censorship, and the role of comedy in political discourse.

Fellow late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart defended Kimmel, while unions such as SAG-AFTRA and the WGA criticized ABC for bowing to political pressure.

On the other side, Trump and conservative media figures celebrated the decision, framing it as accountability. Online, hashtags like #WeAreJimmy and #WeAreCharlie reflected the nation’s deepening political divide.

Return to ABC

After days of speculation and negotiations, ABC announced on September 22, 2025, that Jimmy Kimmel Live! would return on September 23. Disney, ABC’s parent company, described the decision as the result of “thoughtful conversations” with Kimmel.

Still, not all affiliates are on board—Sinclair, among others, has said it will continue substituting local news programming in place of Kimmel’s show.

The reinstatement has sparked both relief and criticism, underscoring tensions between creative freedom, corporate interests, and political influence.

Kimmel’s Future

Jimmy Kimmel’s reinstatement marks a pivotal moment in late-night television. While his show is back on the air, the controversy leaves questions about his long-term standing in the industry.

His career now stands at the intersection of comedy, advocacy, and political polarization—reflecting the broader challenges facing media in an era of heightened cultural and political divides.

Jimmy Kimmel Age

Jimmy Kimmel was born on November 13, 1967, which makes him 57 years old as of 2025. His zodiac sign is Scorpio, known for its intensity and determination.

He is of mixed European heritage, with Italian roots on his mother’s side and German-Irish ancestry from his father.

Kimmel proudly holds American nationality and has become one of the most recognized late-night television hosts in the United States.

Jimmy Kimmel Parents and Siblings

Jimmy Kimmel’s family life is interesting, with a supportive upbringing and a close sibling bond. Here’s the breakdown:

• Parents:

  • Father: James John Kimmel – Worked at American Express.
  • Mother: Joan Kimmel (née Iacono) – No details on her profession readily available.

• Siblings:

  • He has two siblings, a brother named Jonathan and a sister named Jill.

Jimmy Kimmel Wife

Jimmy Kimmel has been married twice. Here’s a rundown of his wives:

• First Marriage (2001-2002): Molly McNearney

  • McNearney is an Emmy-nominated writer and producer who currently works as the co-head writer on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” They met while she was working on the show and married in 2001. However, the marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 2002.

• Current Wife (2013-Present): Giovanna Giannuzzi

  • Kimmel married Giovanna Giannuzzi in 2013. She is relatively private and avoids the spotlight compared to some celebrity spouses. However, they are often seen together at award shows and red carpet events. They have two children together: a daughter named Jane and a son named William.

Jimmy Kimmel Kids

Jimmy Kimmel has four children. He has two older children, Katherine and Kevin, from his first marriage to Gina Maddy. With his current wife, Molly McNearney, he has two younger children, Jane and William (“Billy”). Billy’s health issues have been a significant part of Kimmel’s public life, and he often shares updates about his family on his show​

Jimmy Kimmel Height

Jimmy Kimmel stands tall at approximately 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm), giving him a commanding presence both on and off screen. He maintains a healthy build, weighing around 185 pounds (84 kg).

Jimmy Kimmel’s ABC Career Timeline

Jimmy Kimmel’s association with ABC began in 2003 with the debut of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, marking the start of his two-decade tenure as a late-night host on the network.

Prior to ABC, Kimmel built his career in radio and on Comedy Central (e.g., co-hosting The Man Show from 1999–2003), but his work with ABC has defined his legacy in broadcast television.

Below is a chronological timeline of key milestones, focusing on his professional journey with the network. This includes hosting achievements, controversies, and recent developments as of September 2025.

Kimmel’s ABC era has evolved from irreverent comedy to sharp political commentary, anchoring the network in late-night TV while navigating controversies. As of September 23, 2025, the show resumes airing, though its long-term status remains uncertain.

2017–2020: Political Voice and Controversies

Kimmel’s commentary grew increasingly political, tackling topics like gun control, immigration, and healthcare. While this resonated with liberal audiences, conservatives often criticized him.

In 2019, Jimmy Kimmel Live! marked its 3,000th episode, featuring interviews with figures like Barack Obama. However, in 2020, Kimmel faced backlash for resurfaced sketches from The Man Show involving blackface. He issued a public apology and took a short hiatus before returning.

2021–2024: Longevity and Challenges

Kimmel continued to dominate late-night television, celebrating 20 years of Jimmy Kimmel Live! in 2023. He successfully adapted to post-COVID formats with hybrid in-studio and virtual content.

He hosted the Oscars multiple times during this era, notably in 2022 when he deftly addressed the fallout from the Will Smith–Chris Rock incident. However, ratings across late-night television declined as audiences shifted toward streaming platforms.

2025: Charlie Kirk Controversy and Suspension

On September 10, 2025, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at a campus event in Utah. In the days that followed, Kimmel addressed the tragedy on his show. His initial monologue called for unity, but later episodes accused the “MAGA gang” of politicizing the killing and mocked Donald Trump’s response.

The remarks drew heavy criticism from conservatives. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr called them “truly sick” and warned ABC affiliates of potential consequences. Within days, Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group pulled the show from their markets. On September 18, 2025, ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! indefinitely.

Legacy and Key Observations

• Evolution: Kimmel’s career has shifted from edgy, apolitical comedy (The Man Show) to politically charged late-night satire.

• Resilience: Despite firings, controversies, and declining ratings, he has remained a consistent figure in American entertainment.

• Cultural Impact: Viral sketches, heartfelt monologues, and multiple Oscar-hosting gigs made him a defining late-night voice.

• Challenges Ahead: With Jimmy Kimmel Live! suspended and late-night viewership shrinking, his future in the format remains uncertain.

Jimmy Kimmel Oscars 2024:

Jimmy Kimmel Monologue:

As of today, June 5, 2024, it’s impossible to know the exact content of Jimmy Kimmel’s next monologue. However, here’s a fun way to speculate on what it might cover:

Current Events:

• Pop Culture News: A recent celebrity feud, a trending social media challenge, or a box office smash could be fodder for jokes.

• Politics: Kimmel often uses humor to address political issues. He might poke fun at a recent policy change or a politician’s gaffe.

• Awards Season Wrap-Up: With the Oscars just concluded, he might offer a comedic look back at the ceremony, awards mishaps, or memorable acceptance speeches.

Celebrity Guests:

• If there’s a big-name celebrity booked for the show, Kimmel might use the monologue to introduce them with a humorous anecdote or playful roast.

Viral Videos:

• The internet is full of bizarre or hilarious videos. Kimmel might use one as a springboard for a monologue riff.

Personal Anecdotes:

• Sometimes Kimmel shares funny stories from his personal life, like raising his kids or dealing with household mishaps.

Here’s an example opening using some of these elements:

Kimmel: “Hey everyone, welcome back to the show! Can you believe award season is finally over? It feels like we’ve been thanking the Academy for months. Speaking of thanking people, have you seen [insert celebrity’s name]’s acceptance speech? Apparently, they have a long list of enemies they’d like to publicly shame. It was like watching a celebrity version of the Burn Book from ‘Mean Girls’!

But enough about Hollywood drama. Let’s talk about the real heroes: parents. This week, my son decided to use my prized signed baseball bat to practice his drumming skills. Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the sound of shattering glass and your dreams at 3 am.

Speaking of dreams, did you see that crazy video of the guy who… [insert description of a funny viral video].”

This is just a starting point, of course. The actual monologue will likely be more polished and funnier, with specific jokes tailored to the current events and guest lineup.

Here are some resources to find the latest monologue after it airs:

• Jimmy Kimmel Live! Website:

• Jimmy Kimmel Live! YouTube Channel: [YouTube jimmy kimmel live ON youtube.com]

Jimmy Kimmel Latest Interview

In recent interviews, Jimmy Kimmel has discussed various topics, from his experiences hosting the Oscars to personal stories.

One of his latest interviews was about his views on the entertainment industry, the impact of the writers’ strike, and his thoughts on the future of late-night television.

For more detailed information, you can check out recent episodes of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and interviews on major entertainment news websites like People and Variety​​.

Jimmy Kimmel and Barbie:

His commentary on the “Barbie” movie and its stars, Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, was a notable highlight, especially his criticism of the Academy for not nominating Greta Gerwig for Best Director.

Here are a few notable moments:

1. “Jimmy Kimmel’s Bedtime with Barbie”:

   • In this humorous segment from Jimmy Kimmel Live, Jimmy engages in conversation (and a bit of irritation) with an interactive Barbie doll. The video is a lighthearted take on the challenges of interacting with a high-tech Barbie.

2. “Barbie Oscars Promo”:

   • Jimmy Kimmel created a fun promo video for the Oscars, featuring Barbie characters. He meets “Weird Barbie” (played by Kate McKinnon) and embarks on a voyage to reach “OscarsLand” with the help of Ryan Gosling and America Ferrera. The spoof cleverly references the movie’s road trip montage.

3. “Anti-Vax Barbie”:

   • While not directly related to Jimmy Kimmel, there’s a twist on the classic Barbie doll called “Anti-Vax Barbie.” Mattel capitalized on the anti-vaccine movement by creating a parody version of Barbie. It’s a satirical take on the controversial topic.

Jimmy Kimmel Viral Moments:

Jimmy Kimmel is known for his humorous segments and viral moments. Some of his funniest moments include the “Mean Tweets” segment, where celebrities read and react to mean tweets about themselves, and the Halloween candy prank, where parents tell their kids they ate all their Halloween candy and record their reactions. These segments are regularly featured on his show and shared widely on social media platforms​ ​.

Jimmy Kimmel Suspended After Remarks on Charlie Kirk

The Suspension

ABC has indefinitely suspended Jimmy Kimmel Live! following controversial comments Kimmel made about the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.

The decision came after backlash from conservative broadcasters and condemnation from Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr, who called Kimmel’s remarks “truly sick” and hinted at possible regulatory action against ABC affiliates.

In response, major station owners, including Nexstar Media and Sinclair Broadcast Group, announced they would stop airing the show, prompting ABC to pull it indefinitely.

Kimmel’s Comments

During his monologue, Kimmel accused members of the “MAGA gang” of politicizing Kirk’s death. He suggested they were attempting to distance the alleged shooter, Tyler Robinson, from their movement despite evidence of Robinson’s conservative upbringing.

Authorities later noted Robinson’s more recent political leanings had shifted to the left, and his hostility toward Kirk’s views may have fueled the attack. Kimmel also mocked Vice President JD Vance for what he described as baseless attempts to blame the left for Kirk’s killing.

Reactions from the Industry

The suspension sparked immediate debate in the entertainment world. Stephen Colbert labeled ABC’s decision a “blatant assault on the freedom of speech,” while Jon Stewart, Jimmy Fallon, and Seth Meyers voiced their support for Kimmel on their own shows, satirizing the controversy.

The Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild also issued statements defending him, arguing the suspension signaled dangerous political pressure on media companies.

Political Response

Former President Donald Trump celebrated the move on Truth Social, calling it “Great News for America” and ridiculing Kimmel as “ratings challenged” with “ZERO talent.” Supporters of Trump applauded the suspension, while critics accused ABC of bowing to political and regulatory threats.

Broader Debate

The controversy has reignited discussions over free speech, censorship, and the role of late-night hosts in political commentary.

Observers also note that the decision comes amid sensitive business negotiations involving Disney and Nexstar, raising speculation about whether corporate interests and government pressure played a role.

The situation mirrors earlier disputes, such as Stephen Colbert’s show cancellation, which critics also linked to political backlash despite CBS citing financial reasons.

Jimmy Kimmel Health

Jimmy Kimmel has been open about his health and his family’s health struggles. He has discussed his son Billy’s congenital heart condition and the surgeries Billy has undergone. Kimmel has also used his platform to advocate for healthcare issues and support for families dealing with similar health challenges​​.

Here’s a summary:

1. Billy’s Heart Condition:

   • Jimmy Kimmel’s 7-year-old son, Billy, was born with a congenital heart defect called tetralogy of Fallot, which involves four heart abnormalities affecting blood flow.

• • Billy underwent three open-heart surgeries, with the latest one in May. Dr. Vaughn Starnes, the cardiac surgeon, performed the life-saving procedure to address Billy’s “very severe form” of the condition.

1. • Jimmy and his wife, Molly McNearney, have been resilient throughout this journey, with Jimmy openly sharing his emotions and advocating for better health care.

2. Health Care Advocacy:

   • Jimmy Kimmel’s advocacy began when he tearfully revealed Billy’s struggle during a monologue on his show. This heartfelt moment coincided with discussions about health care laws in the U.S.

• • Since then, Kimmel has become a passionate advocate for universal health care coverage. He also uses his platform to address other critical issues, including gun control and political controversies.

Jimmy Kimmel Letter

An open letter was drafted and signed by more than 400 Hollywood stars and entertainment industry professionals in protest of Kimmel’s suspension.

The letter, organized by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), condemned the government pressure on a private company and called on all Americans to defend their right to free speech. Signatories included major celebrities like Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Robert De Niro, and Jennifer Aniston.

Jimmy Kimmel Returns

After being suspended indefinitely, ABC announced that “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” would be reinstated. The network stated that the decision was made after having “thoughtful conversations with Jimmy.”

However, some affiliates, like Sinclair, initially stated they would not air the returning show, with discussions ongoing about its potential return to their stations.

Jimmy Kimmel House

Jimmy Kimmel resides in Los Angeles, California. His house has been featured in various media outlets, showcasing his luxurious home with ample space for his family. Details about his residence are often kept private to maintain his family’s privacy and security​​.

Jimmy Kimmel Net Worth and Salary

As of 2025, Jimmy Kimmel’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $50 million. His primary source of income is his role as the host of Jimmy Kimmel Live!, for which his annual salary is reportedly around $15 million.

Sources of Income

Kimmel’s total earnings come from a variety of sources, which have contributed to his substantial net worth over his decades-long career. His income streams include:

• Hosting Salary: His annual salary for hosting Jimmy Kimmel Live! is his main source of income, with some reports suggesting his total yearly earnings from the show, including bonuses and other deals, could be even higher.

• Production Work: Kimmel is also a producer, with credits on shows like Crank Yankers, which adds to his overall earnings.

• Awards Show Hosting: He has earned significant one-time payments for hosting high-profile events like the Academy Awards and the Primetime Emmy Awards.

• Endorsement Deals: Kimmel has also earned income through brand partnerships and endorsement deals with major companies.

Is Jimmy Kimmel Married?

Yes, Jimmy Kimmel is currently married to Molly McNearney. They have been married since 2013.

How Old Is Jimmy Kimmel?

Jimmy Kimmel is 57 years old, born on November 13, 1967.

Why did they suspend Jimmy Kimmel?

Jimmy Kimmel’s show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, was suspended by ABC following controversial remarks he made about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

The suspension came after two of ABC’s largest affiliate owners, Nexstar and Sinclair, announced they would pull the show from their stations, citing Kimmel’s comments as “offensive and insensitive.”

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr also criticized Kimmel’s remarks and suggested that broadcasters airing the show could face repercussions.

Why is Jimmy Kimmel leaving?

Jimmy Kimmel is not leaving his show. The recent suspension was temporary.

ABC has announced that the show would be reinstated, and as of now, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” is back on the air. Kimmel’s current contract with ABC is set to expire in May 2026.

What happened with Jimmy Kimmel?

Following the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Jimmy Kimmel made comments on his show that accused some in the “MAGA gang” of trying to “capitalize on the murder” and trying to characterize the accused killer as anything other than “one of them.”

These remarks sparked a backlash that led to ABC temporarily suspending his show. The suspension was met with protests and an open letter signed by hundreds of Hollywood stars in defense of free speech, leading to a national debate on the topic. After a few days, ABC announced that the show would be reinstated.

How much does Jimmy Kimmel make each year?

Jimmy Kimmel’s annual salary from “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” is reported to be around $15 million. This amount is comparable to other major late-night hosts like Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Fallon.

His total earnings, which include bonuses, production responsibilities, brand endorsements, and hosting other events like the Academy Awards, could be higher, with some estimates placing it closer to $20-24 million annually.

What did he say?

In a monologue following the death of Charlie Kirk, Jimmy Kimmel said that “many in MAGA land are working very hard to capitalize on the murder of Charlie Kirk” and that the “MAGA gang” was “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.” He also criticized President Donald Trump’s response to the event.

Where Is Jimmy Kimmel?

Jimmy Kimmel is the host and executive producer of the late-night talk show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, which is broadcast on the American Broadcasting Company (ABC). The show is taped at the El Capitan Entertainment Centre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California.

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