In a move that has stunned the late-night television world, Jimmy Kimmel has announced that Jimmy Kimmel Live! will conclude its historic run on January 20, 2026 — the same day as the presidential inauguration — and that he is permanently leaving the United States.
The announcement came during an emotional segment on last night’s episode, where Kimmel, 58, addressed the audience directly with a tone that mixed resignation, frustration, and finality.
I’ve been doing this show for 23 years,” Kimmel said, voice steady but eyes visibly emotional. “I love this country. I love the people. But right now, I don’t recognize it anymore. The division, the anger, the way politics has poisoned everything… I can’t keep pretending it’s just another day at the desk. I’m leaving the US, and I’m never coming back.”
