Jimmy Kimmel Eyeing Next Move After Signing Disappointing 1-Year Contract Extension For Late-Night Show (Exclusive)

Jimmy Kimmel is desperate to find a new, secure gig before his eponymous show’s contract ends in 2027, a source tells the National Enquirer.

The late-night host, 58, announced in a Monday, December 8, Instagram post that ABC recently agreed to air Jimmy Kimmel Live! for just another year.

“The customary practice is for a series to get renewed for three or four years at a time, so Jimmy’s 12-month extension feels like a slap in the face,” says the source. “It’s a pretty clear signal that network bosses are at least contemplating replacing the show.”

In September, the comedian was briefly suspended over controversial comments he made following the death of right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk.

Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has repeatedly called for Kimmel to be fired from the Emmy-winning talk show that he’s helmed since 2003.

“This has been a strange year,” the showbiz veteran admitted before growing emotional during his final monologue of 2025 on Wednesday, December 18. “It’s been a hard year.”

But the source says Kimmel is now trying to look forward.

“Jimmy didn’t get the security he wanted with his latest contract renewal, which has him thinking ahead about what’s next,” shares the source. “He has a lot of favors he could call in after so many years in Hollywood.”

As the Enquirer previously reported, the reigning Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? host is rumored to be eyeing a jump to Jeopardy!

“The clock’s ticking on his TV future,” warns the source. “He needs a fresh opportunity.”