Late-night television just got a lot less funny—and a whole lot more surprising. Jimmy Kimmel, one of America’s most beloved late-night hosts, has announced that his long-running show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, will officially end on January 20th. But the real shocker? Kimmel isn’t just stepping away from the spotlight; he’s packing up and moving to Canada, and according to him, he’s “never coming back.”
The announcement has left fans stunned and the entertainment industry buzzing with speculation. Why would one of late-night TV’s biggest stars leave it all behind—and why Canada?
A Sudden Goodbye to Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Kimmel broke the news during a live broadcast, delivering the bombshell with his signature mix of humor and candor. “After 21 years, I think it’s time to turn off the lights, take the desk, and head north,” Kimmel quipped, eliciting a mix of gasps and laughter from the studio audience.
The show, which first premiered in 2003, has been a staple of late-night television, known for its witty monologues, star-studded interviews, and unforgettable comedy sketches. Over the years, Kimmel has tackled everything from pop culture to politics, often blending humor with heartfelt moments that resonated with audiences across the country.
But all good things must come to an end—and Kimmel seems ready to embrace a new chapter in his life.
Why Canada?
While some fans initially thought the move was a joke, Kimmel quickly clarified that he’s serious about relocating. “Yes, I’m moving to Canada. No, this isn’t a bit. And no, I’m not coming back,” he said.
So, why Canada? Kimmel hinted at several reasons during his announcement:
1.A Fresh Start: “Sometimes, you just need a change of scenery,” Kimmel explained. “And Canada seems like the perfect place for a fresh start—great people, great healthcare, and way fewer people asking me about the Kardashians.”
2.A Shift in Priorities: After two decades in the high-pressure world of late-night television, Kimmel admitted he’s looking forward to a slower pace of life. “I’ve spent 20 years talking about politics, celebrity gossip, and viral videos. Maybe it’s time to focus on something else—like maple syrup and ice hockey.”
3.A Desire for Privacy: Kimmel has been open about the challenges of balancing fame and family. “I love my audience, but I also love my privacy,” he said. “And Canada feels like the kind of place where you can walk down the street without paparazzi hiding in the bushes.”
Fans React to the News
As expected, Kimmel’s announcement has sparked a wave of reactions from fans and fellow celebrities alike. Social media platforms lit up with posts ranging from shock to sadness to outright disbelief.
“Jimmy Kimmel leaving late-night TV AND moving to Canada? What is happening?” one Twitter user wrote.
Another fan added, “First we lost Conan, now Kimmel is leaving too? Late-night TV will never be the same.”
Even fellow late-night hosts weighed in on the news. Stephen Colbert joked, “I guess we’ll have to rename the genre to ‘Very Late Night…Without Jimmy.’” Meanwhile, Jimmy Fallon offered a heartfelt message: “Wishing you all the best, Jimmy. Canada is lucky to have you!”
What’s Next for Kimmel?
While Kimmel didn’t reveal many details about his future plans, he did hint at a few potential projects. “I’m not retiring—just reinventing,” he said. “Who knows? Maybe I’ll host a talk show in Canada. Jimmy Kimmel Live, Eh? has a nice ring to it.”
He also mentioned a desire to focus on philanthropic work and spend more time with his family. “My kids are growing up fast, and I want to be there for every hockey game, every school play. And if I can do that while enjoying some poutine, even better.”
A Changing Late-Night Landscape
Kimmel’s departure marks the end of an era for late-night television, which has already seen significant shifts in recent years. With the exits of Conan O’Brien and James Corden, and now Kimmel, the late-night landscape is undergoing a transformation.
Streaming platforms, podcasts, and digital content have increasingly pulled audiences away from traditional late-night shows. As a result, networks are rethinking their strategies and exploring new formats to keep viewers engaged.
For ABC, the end of Jimmy Kimmel Live! presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The network will need to find a new host—or perhaps even a new format—that can fill the void left by Kimmel’s departure.
A Bittersweet Farewell
As the countdown to January 20th begins, fans are preparing to say goodbye to one of late-night’s most iconic figures. While the news is bittersweet, many are excited to see what the future holds for Kimmel—both in Canada and beyond.
In true Kimmel fashion, he ended his announcement with a heartfelt message to his fans: “Thank you for letting me into your homes every night. It’s been an incredible ride. And while I may be heading north, I’ll always be grateful for the love and laughter we’ve shared. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a moose to ride.”
Whether it’s in Hollywood or the Great White North, one thing is certain: Jimmy Kimmel’s next adventure will be one to watch.
When will these so-called celebrities realize we could care less where they go or what they say. In my opinion, Kimmel is running from the Diddy tapes.
Gee, another Hollywood “Elite” leaving because he doesn’t like the new President. Just one more person to muck up politics with entertainment, one less person to tell us or persuade us who our best leaders should be. Be a fact checker and decide on your own who to vote for. Stop listening to people who don’t have to worry about where your next paycheck is coming from.
HE…isn’t “coming nack?” Of course not.. My only hope is that no other Lineral , anti-American piece of fecal material ever takes his place.
He’s not coming nack? Lineral? English isn’t your first language, right?
So. Who cares ?? These rich Hollywood types think they are royalty or something ! I understand why he’d want to do more family time but running off to Canada to sulk !? We put a new president in! By majority of every day people who suffered more under last presidential terms !! Something his high paycheck wouldn’t know about ! Run Jimmy run ! I sure hope it’s not because of Diddy! But we will all find out eventually !.,
You obviously care, you wrote a book. And what does having a mentally deranged Trump for president have to do with this 🤣, but I see your profile, now I know why you think that way. 🤣🤣 oh gosh! Entertained for sure.
Good riddance. Don’t let the door his your ass on the way out!!
His?
Why Hasn’t Rosie, Whoopi and Joy packed up yet? Seems they all allowed to leave if Trump got elected the first time. Their word is worth as much as their opinions!
He should have stuck with the Man Show, at least he was funny on that. Why hasn’t Rosie, Whoopi, and Joy packed up yet? Semms when Trump got elected the first time. they all vowed to leave the country. Their words are worth as much as their opinions!
“Don’t let the door his your ass on the way out”
Why do trumpsters have so much trouble spelling?
Called uneducated. Trumpeters favorite people!
Ouch… a lot of bitter responses. I’m from Canada and I lived for a period in the US. It’s no big deal. Change is good and that’s all it’s about. You guys are so star spangled crazy that your offended if someone wants to see what else is out ther.e. Maybe we’ll piss him off and he’ll be back in a year.
I happen to love the show and I’m going to miss it. I’m not completely convinced Jimmy Kimmel is leaving because HE wants to. It’s no secret Trump hates him and one way or another, Trump always gets his way.
You are delusional. You seriously think trump is forcing him out??? Good Lord! Keep up the crazy Trump talk so it’s another walk in park for the next conservative candidate in 4 years!
Wait. Trump wants Canada.even by force if necessary.
What about aunt chippy
Sounds pretty darn un-American to me. The real problem is people like this who cannot remove partisan politics from their life, or at least learn not take it too seriously. People like Kimmel who have communication platforms could actually help neutralize the negative aspects of certain political issues. Further, it seems to me that comedians benefit quite well {financially} by mocking politics and politicians. For this reason, I don’t belive politics is the primary reason he’s moving to Canada . Nor do I buy the claim that it’s temporary.