In a surprising twist, Jimmy Kimmel has thrown his weight behind Dana Walden as the next Disney CEO, but when it comes to his own late-night future, he’s keeping his cards close to his chest. And this is the part most people miss: Kimmel’s endorsement of Walden isn’t just a casual remark—it’s a bold statement about leadership in an industry under constant scrutiny. But here’s where it gets controversial: Kimmel believes the recent backlash over his comments about Charlie Kirk was unfairly amplified by right-wing media, sparking a debate about free speech and corporate responsibility. Is he right, or did he cross a line? Let us know in the comments!
During his first major interview since the controversy, Kimmel opened up about the whirlwind events of the past month. Speaking at the Bloomberg Screentime event, he detailed how his remarks triggered a media storm and credited Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman Dana Walden for helping navigate the fallout. Kimmel admitted he didn’t see his comments as a “big problem” but rather as a “distortion” by conservative outlets. He praised Walden for her role in resolving the situation, saying, “Dana’s weekend was ruined by non-stop phone calls, but her involvement was crucial. She helped me think everything through and understand different perspectives—something I sometimes struggle with because I can be reactionary.”
Kimmel’s support for Walden as Disney’s next CEO is no small endorsement. But why does this matter? Because it highlights a broader conversation about who should lead one of the world’s most influential entertainment companies. Kimmel joked that he’s rarely part of such discussions but added, “Dana has done a phenomenal job, and it would be foolish to overlook her. The way she handled this situation proves her leadership.” However, he also criticized the unfair pressure placed on Disney executives during the controversy, asking, “Should anyone ever be put in such a position?”
When it comes to his own future, Kimmel is less forthcoming. Despite previously discussing his late-night plans openly, he now avoids the topic. Why the sudden silence? Kimmel explained, “I’ve learned not to say anything because it upsets my staff. I’ve joked about retiring with every contract, but here I am. So, I’m keeping quiet this time.” He did, however, reveal that late-night shows cost around $120 million annually, a figure he believes is excessive. “These shows don’t need to be that expensive,” he argued, “They started as a way to get high-priced talent for almost free. The idea that they now cost $120 million is absurd.”
Kimmel also addressed the elephant in the room: would he invite President Trump or FCC Chair Brendan Carr on his show? “I’d love to have Trump on,” he said, “but not because I agree with him—because it would make for great TV.” This raises another controversial question: Should late-night hosts prioritize entertainment over political neutrality?
Finally, Kimmel discussed his show’s popularity on YouTube, admitting it’s hurt his linear TV ratings. “YouTube pays nothing, but it lets people worldwide watch my show,” he said. “Is this the future of late-night TV, or is it killing the traditional model? Let’s debate that in the comments!” Kimmel’s candid reflections offer a rare glimpse into the challenges of modern media—and leave us wondering what’s next for him, Disney, and the industry at large.
