On the evening broadcast of Jimmy Kimmel Live's last show of 2025, host Jimmy Kimmel provided his audience with a heartfelt monologue. Addressing viewers on Thursday, Kimmel expressed that the year had been exceptionally challenging for him, both in his career and personal life.
“This has been a strange year. It’s been a hard year,” Kimmel conveyed, acknowledging the mix of highs and lows he experienced, with the past year standing out as particularly poignant. In a moment of vulnerability, he extended gratitude to his audience, whose support he credited as instrumental during trying times. “This year, you literally pulled us out of a hole,” he said.
The late-night host discussed the complexities of his role amid ongoing political and cultural turmoil, highlighting the impact of witnessing “awful and destructive acts.” Kimmel's remarks suggested a broader reflection on the state of society and the toll it takes on those attempting to make sense of it.
Earlier in 2025, Jimmy Kimmel Live faced significant uncertainty. ABC temporarily removed the show from its schedule following comments from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, an appointee of President Donald Trump, implying the network's license could be in jeopardy due to the content of Kimmel's program. Kimmel, known for his vocal criticism of President Trump, found himself and his team in a precarious position during the suspension, as reported by the Daily Mail.
The host's wife and head writer, Molly McNearney, shared at a public event the fear that Kimmel's career might have concluded during this period, a sentiment that underscores the fragility of free speech in contentious times.
The broadcaster's return to the airwaves came with a renewed contract through May 2027, a reprieve amidst the year's professional pressures. On a personal note, Kimmel also recounted the emotional loss of his best friend and band leader, Cleto Escobedo III, who passed away following a liver transplant. Additionally, Kimmel remarked on the devastation of Los Angeles wildfires, which added to an already heavy year.
Despite the hardships, Kimmel emphasized the therapeutic value of late-night comedy and its role in connecting with people who find solace in shared experiences. His closing message to both domestic and international audiences was one of resilience and hope, acknowledging the presence of goodness in the country even amidst troubled times.
The emotional weight of Kimmel's year was underscored by a tweet from Price of Reason, referencing his substantial annual salary and critiquing his actions surrounding the reported death of Charlie Kirk.
